What does a Home Health Nurse do?
Home Health Nurses typically work for home healthcare agencies to provide at-home care to patients. They use their nursing qualifications in combination with their compassion for others to provide quality medical services to their patients. Their job is to take their patient’s vitals, assess the state of their health and perform routine procedures like providing medication and checking on wounds. After each visit, they write progress reports for Doctors to review. They may also teach loved ones how to carry out routine care procedures like administering medications, checking blood sugar levels and changing bandages.
Home Health Nurse skills and qualifications
A successful Home Health Nurse uses a variety of soft skills and clinical knowledge to provide the most comprehensive care. These skills can include:
- Strong interpersonal skills that allow them to get to know their patients, build personal rapport and establish trust to provide high-quality care while increasing patients’ enjoyment and comfort
- Initiative so they can make independent decisions when required and accept direction and requests from patients.
- Ability to act swiftly in emergencies and work efficiently
- Flexibility and patience to work in a variety of living environments
- Knowledge of clinical skills including changing bandages, giving tube feedings, administering shots and setting up and monitoring IVs
Home Health Nurse salary expectations
A Home Health Nurse makes an average of $1,663 per week. Salaries may vary based on a candidate’s geographical location, experience level and education.
Home Health Nurse education and training requirements
Many Home Health Nurse job postings do not require a bachelor’s degree and will accept a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) with a certificate or diploma from a state-approved, accredited program, which usually takes less than one year to complete and is available at technical schools and community colleges. Registered Nurses (RNs) complete a longer degree program, typically a bachelor’s degree, and are therefore more competitive among Home Health Nurse applicants. RNs, LVNs and LPNs all must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) to receive a license.
Home Health Nurse experience requirements
Most nursing degree or certificate programs require some practical experience working with patients, though it would be beneficial to gain experience in home health settings before applying to this role. Additionally, any volunteer experience in home care or nursing homes can make an applicant more competitive.
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