If you’re in the situation of finding a home nurse, you know it’s a big decision. Having someone in the family that needs constant care and attention can become heavy on everyone. A nurse, in that situation, can help alleviate the pressure.
But there are exceptions. You may be someone who doesn’t want to leave the responsibility of taking care of a loved one to a stranger. In that case, you can check out FNP to DNP online Illinois programs to educate yourself.
But in this post, we’re focusing on professional help and its importance. When you choose a home nurse, it’s not just about skills but also how they fit with your family. Let’s walk through the key things you need to consider to make the best choice.
Understanding Your Needs
First off, think about the specific health needs the nurse must address. It’s where you start because you only feel the need to hire one to take care of a sick family member, right?
Are we talking about chronic illness management? Or is it post-surgery care? Elderly support?
When you have answers to all of these questions, they help you pinpoint the kind of expertise you need.
The last thing you should consider is the personal fitment. The person that’s coming in must get along well with all the family members. And most importantly, with the person they’re supposed to care for.
In this realm, think about what matters to you and your family. Maybe you need someone who speaks a certain language. Or understand your cultural nuances. Or, just jive well with your family’s vibe. Whatever it is that is important for you, focus on that.
Qualifications and Experience
Obviously, you’re hiring a medical professional. So, checking credentials and certifications before making the final decision is crucial. Credentials, for starters, are non-negotiable. You must make sure that the nurse has the proper licenses and certifications.
As each state has its own requirements, you must be diligent about this. In Illinois, home nurses must be licensed as Registered Nurses (RNs) or Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs).
They should also have passed the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN exams, respectively. Additionally, certifications in specialized areas like geriatric care or palliative care are good to have, depending on what kind of situation you’re dealing with.
Most importantly, you should verify their license status with the Illinois Board of Nursing instead of taking their word for it. The moral compass of the world is pretty weak these days and you don’t want to take any chances.
Last but not least, experience counts. It’s especially true when you’re looking for specific care areas. If you need someone skilled in dementia care, for instance, not just any nurse will do. During the initial screening, ask about their past roles and the types of patients they’ve worked with.
Conducting Interviews and Reference Checks
You must interview the candidates to determine whether they’re a right fit for your family or not.
When you sit down for an interview, have your questions ready. It doesn’t have to be a structured questionnaire, per se. But be sure to ask about their experience, approach to care, how they handle emergencies, and anything specific to your situation.
Once you have a handful of potential candidates, it’s time to check references. While this may seem unnecessary, it’s a critical part of the selection process.
Call their previous employers and do a background check by contacting the right authority in your area.
Legal and Financial Considerations
Of course, the fact that you’re hiring a healthcare professional to take care of a patient means you’ve got to pay them. It’s best to talk about payment upfront. Find out the cost and how the nurse wants to handle payments.
Also, check if your insurance covers home nursing care. If it does, it can be a game-changer, financially speaking.
Once the money aspect is out of the way, dive into the legal stuff. This includes contracts, work hours, and any other legal obligations you have as an employer. You might want to consult a professional for this.
Summary
Choosing the right home nurse is a mix of practical considerations, like qualifications and experience, and personal factors, like compatibility and trust. Take your time, do your homework and trust your gut. The right person will not only provide great care but will also become a cherished part of your family’s life.
