As home health care continues to expand, the need for quality nurses in this field has also grown. As a result, there are more opportunities for a registered nurse in a hospital to transition into a private duty nurse in a home setting. Private duty nurses are either self-employed or employed by a home health care agency. These nurses provide basic nursing care for patients who are living with physical or mental impairments that prevent them from performing self-care.
What Does The Average Day Look Like For A Private Duty Nurse?
Every day may bring about new tasks and challenges, depending on the type of patients the nurse has. However, most PDNs visit one or more clients each day. During these visits, the nurse conducts routine health checks and addresses any care needs the client may have. A client with multiple needs may need a nurse in the home for several hours a day or around the clock. Clients who can provide some self-care may only need a nurse in the home for a daily checkup.
The Different Types of Clients
The home environment clients are no different than the patients the same nurse may care for in a hospital setting. The only difference is that in-home care clients have long-term needs that can be provided for in their homes. The elderly may choose to utilize the services of a private nurse rather than move into a long-term care facility. There are other clients, such as disabled adults and children, who prefer to receive their nursing care in the comfort of their homes.
The Services Provided By a Private Nurse
There are numerous services that a private duty nursing license can provide. Besides basic monitoring of the client’s health, the nurse may also need to:
- Coordination of care with your physician
- Medication management including monitoring of medication dosage
- Wound care
- Infusion treatment
- Ostomy care and other care for complex and chronic conditions
- Maintain medical equipment such as ventilators
- Assist with feeding and hygiene
A private duty nurse should possess qualities such as organization, compassion, and attention to detail. These nurses work with the client’s health care team to ensure the client remains as independent as possible.
Contact us today for an assessment and discover how our private duty nurses can provide your loved one with quality care at home.