When an individual is discharged from a hospital or rehabilitation facility, they often believe the worst is behind them. Unfortunately, the most challenging part of the recovery process is usually just beginning. In fact, after discharge, they will more than likely have to adapt to a new routine in the home. And this routine will require a lot of organization. The more prepared a person is before they are discharged, the less likely they will need to be admitted. The good news is that home care nursing services can reduce the chances of readmission.
The people at a higher risk of being readmitted to the hospital after discharge suffer from several chronic diseases. Unfortunately, one in four persons over 65 has at least one chronic illness. Hence, this results in a large percentage of susceptible individuals to readmission.
Some of the most challenging chronic diseases that affect this age group are:
• Diabetes
• Heart Failure
• Coronary Artery Disease
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Changes in the Health Care System
Unfortunately, today many hospitals are understaffed. When this factor is combined with advancements in the medical industry that help people live longer, it is common for patients to receive subpar care during their hospital stay.
In addition, many health insurance companies have stipulations that restrict the length of time a patient can stay in the hospital for certain types of care. Most patients do not like staying in the hospital for long periods, and patients are often discharged with wounds that will need to be observed and dressed. Furthermore, occasionally blood tests will need to be taken, and even IV medications will need to be given. This is when quality home care nursing services are beneficial to helping patients recover fully.
Most private health insurances, as well as Medicare, provide coverage for home health care services. It benefits the insurance companies because home health care is less expensive than hospital stays. In addition, home health nurses can provide all of the services you or your loved one need, and you can even inquire about the different types of services offered by the agency.
Besides wound dressing and medication administration, these agencies also provide services that help patients with their Activities of Daily Living, such as:
• Bathing
• Toileting
• Transfers
• Meal preparation
• Light housekeeping
• Laundry
• Cooking
Home Care Nursing Services Is Influential In Chronic Pain Management
Everyone has some challenges. These challenges may be related to finances, relationships, and health. However, one of the biggest challenges facing Americans is that millions have chronic diseases. Over 90% of adults have one chronic disease, and over 70% have two chronic diseases.
There are four chronic diseases that cause two-thirds of deaths reported in the elderly. These diseases are heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and cancer. Chronic diseases not only place a burden on the health care systems, but they also place burdens on the patient and their families. Fortunately, those with chronic diseases can successfully manage their health conditions, reduce their chances of readmission and improve their quality of life through home care nursing services.
It Is Your Home, and It Is Your Choice
Selecting the best agency to provide home care nursing services for you or your loved one is not a decision that should be taken lightly. After all, you and your family will be allowing someone to enter into the most intimate and private area of your life, your home. The patient is at their most vulnerable during this time, and it is important to have confidence in your loved one’s home care.
Your loved ones will also receive the one-on-one attention that they deserve. When they are at home, they receive complete attention from their home nurse and caregiver.
Individuals are much more than the label placed on them or their current health state. The chronic disease your loved one is living with is only a small part of the equation. Even though specific tasks may prove, more challenging, home care nursing services can help your loved one actively manage their disease and take a proactive approach to their overall wellbeing.
Contact us today to learn more about our home care nursing services.