HELP...I need advice for new CM to HH

[muffin7]

I have an interview at a Home Health Agency for a Case Management position. I had originally applied for HH to do visits and they said they also had a position for a CM. I have 2.5 years in the OR, I went into the OR right out of nursing school. I'm a quick learner and would appreciate any advice that you can give me.

[SpeedracerRN]

Solid med surg experience and working with other disciplines like PT, OT, ST MSW in real world patient settings is an important part of effective home health field work, much less case managing patient needs.

I hate to say it, but as an OR nurse straight out of school and no good old fashioned floor nursing, most hiring managers are gonna have to stretch to consider you.

I would knock out a year of awake patient care first in a hospital. Something with lots of IVs, Wound-Vacs, post ortho or surgical care type work.

Home health may be cake at times, but killer assessment skills, sharp critical thinking and the ability to identify real patient needs is something you must have to excel.

[muffin7]

Thanks for your response, but it's too late. I am in my 4th week and I am loving HH. I have a fantastic manager, who is always available and is really happy with my ability/progress.

Even better...my patients love me.

[SpeedracerRN]

Kudos to you, and your manager for being supportive. Keep on top of the paperwork and never be afraid to call in for a hand if faced with an oddball situation, something new, or if your gut feelings concern you with a pt.

You may be the only person to notice sepsis in its early stage, an abuse situation or whatever, so never ignore that "spidey-sense" we RNs have.

Enjoy your new career.