Handy tools

A notebook to keep track of mileage and also jot down notes if you receive a call while out in the field. I also kept a little flexible file folder to hold face sheets for each of my patients, sometimes your computer dies and you need access to their info. Also helpful for storing lab requisition sheets, insulin logs, etc. I also bought a used bin at good will to help keep my supplies organized.

I've been a Visiting Nurse for Medicare Certified home care for 10+ years. I use the sticky pads on my laptop for my schedule and clinical notes. I have a binder for papers and an enclosed clip board for papers that need to go back to the office (in international orange!). I put the mileage right into the schedule when I get to the patients home and reset the odometer before I get out of the car for the visit. I use google on my phone when patients have questions during the visit...suppliers, generic vs brand name terms, who won the "game last night"... you tube is a great source for procedure videos for patients (and nurses) to refresh your recollections...especially if it's been a while. (Just make sure to preview them privately before using them for families...). I have doctors numbers in the resources section of my lap top. I also have switched to using a backpack for carrying my stuff - there are lots of pockets for organization of computer, cell phone, wifi, pens, forms, visit supplies, basic equipment (like BP cuff, thermometer, stethoscope, pulse ox) and infection control stuff.

My GPS makes life much easier and can help find a bathroom when you are in a less familiar territory! In my car I have bins for supplies and carry bags for holding admit packets, my binder, scale, surplus infection prevention supplies, etc. I also keep an insulated tote for lab draws with an ice pack for hot summer months - until I can drop them off. A trash bag is helpful for corralling the inevitable trash that comes with spending so much time in your car.

When planning out out my day first review any reports/new admissions, listen to voice mail and check e-mail. I then look an my day and write out patient names on the sticky notes in my computer. Next, I cut and paste the patient addresses onto my sticky notes. I then use a mapping software to lay out locations (if I am not sure how the addresses relate to each other) and then order the visits based on geographic proximity and any special needs (time specific visits, CHHA supervisions, fasting labs, etc). I review the last visit plan for each patient and any new clinical notes from other clinicians. If there are any new admits for the day, I review the intake notes and look up anything I'm not sure of...Then I call the patients and schedule. I always give a window of time for my arrival which reflects the expected time I will spend with the previous patient plus travel and then the "fudge" factor...e.g.: patient one: I expect to arrive between 830 and 930. Patient two: I expect to arrive between 930-1030, patient 3: I expect to arrive between 1115-1215. And so on.

good luck, and you will get the hang of it.