4/08: Update: New to Homecare? Read these articles to get you started

Look at these books by Tina M. Marrelli--helped me

Handbook of Home Health Orientation

Writing 485 plan of treatments:
Handbook of Home Health Standards and Documentation -- Guidelines for Reimbursement

I've worked in a hospital for about 5 years now. I'm really sick of all the short staffing. I feel like pts and family members can be very demanding but thought if I got into Home Health it might be better....after all I would be meeting them on their turf. Any comments would be appreciated!

I graduated Dec. 2006 and worked 6 wks in two different hospitals. The first I had 9 pt. working up to 18 - there was just so little patient care time. The second the nurses were definitely "young eaters" and the bickering amongst themselves and back biting about me (I overheard a conversation that still makes me feel bad) and only 5 days with a preceptor made me hate myself for spending the money, time, and effort it took to become an RN. Anyway, I've been reading the posts on allnurses for three months and would really like to go into home health, but is that a good idea for a new nurse? Our state health department is hiring Home Health Nurse I now. My strongest asset when I worked was my patient relationships - even as a student the patients would say I was going to be a great nurse, many said I was compassionate and they were so glad I was there nurse. BUT, I know experience makes a really great nurse and that's what I want to be.

hello,
I was just reading your message. I graduated in May 07 and i'm currently working at a hospital in PCU. I also have a very strong interest in home health for the same reasons you mentioned, and I'm wondering how things worked for you. Do I have a chance even though I don't have much experience? I'd appreciate if you could drop me an email at deusadomar@embarqmail.com.
Thank you very much,
Lia