Apr 27, 2008 10:56 PM - I agree, I have never worked in a hospital setting but did HH for about 8 years, including hospice and private duty. It is very rewarding and I loved it. Got out because of having to go to the bad side of town at dusk repeatedly and had no other way to go any other time. Had the males in the house making inappropriate sexual remarks and decided it wasn't safe anymore, plus lots of drive by shootings at the time back in the 1990's in that area, still loved that one on one pt contact though and would love to go back.

May 10, 2008 07:11 AM - Thanks for this posting. Its so inspiring to hear nurses talk about loving their job, and the fact that they (you) are so good at what you do just comes shining through.
I'm still at uni doing my BN, but I'm working with DADCH HomeCare while I'm studying. I am constantly honored by the priveledges of caring for people in their own homes, by the smiles on their faces when I arrive and by the information they so willingly share. Of course, every job has its challenges, and sometimes one hour in one persons home can feel like an entire night shift in an aged care facility, but still, they are the people who i will want to tell first when i do graduate. As hard as it is at the moment, i know the tough love is preparing me for the years ahead as an RN.
Its the first job I've ever had where I have total trust in my workmates, and learn more from them everyday. I believe it takes a special kind of person to stick at home health for so long. You seem to have learnt all the secrets.
Thankyou so much for sharing them.
I'll be sure to revisit this post after many a difficult day.
Love your work!!!

May 18, 2008 05:12 PM - I am so pleased to receive such wonderful comments. This was my first on-line article and I am happy I took the time to share my expericences. Thank you all.

May 19, 2008 08:40 AM - I just passed my NCLEX RN last week and now I'm trying to figure out where to work. I've been a LPN for 15 yrs. My only experience is LTC. I need flexability because I have young children and working at the hospital isn't a good fit especially working 12 hour shifts. I'm more concerned about solidifing my skills. I've always wanted to try Home Care nursing. Is this a good place to start as a new grad? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

May 26, 2008 11:11 AM - Great Post! I've spent almost 10 years in the medical field and have survived my first year in HH. I think it's one of the industry's best kept secrets! I feel that all my jobs in the hospital (Peds, Inpt Rehab, OR) have given me skills that I can bring to my patients in the home.

Jun 01, 2008 08:40 PM - Great article! I have been in nursing for 24 years; almost all in acute care. I went into Home Health almost 2 years ago. I find it both challenging & rewarding! I love the fact that my patients have my undivided attention; no call bells, telemetry alarms, telephones ringing non-stop, etc... I'm still working on the time management & organziation thing! A sense of humor is essential!