Home Health/ Hospice Nursing

RNRutRO · Jan 12, 2009

I work home health and love it. Didn't think that I would, but gave it a try anyway. I've worked for three different agencies. They each had their good points and bad.

First, if it's a PRN job, you will have to be patient. You will have to "accept" more cases at first. By that, you might get asked to do a start of care (SOC) and then usually that will be your patient. Some agencies will give the regular visits to LVN's. It's a cost thing. But, for the most part, once the admit is done, you can work with the patient to find a time that works for you both. Unless it's an insulin injection or infusion, most people are flexible. I did have a pt that wanted to be seen on T-Th at 2PM. PERIOD. But that was not the norm.

I'm in Houston and the pay rate here for a regular visit is $40-59. Depends on the agency. I also recommend STRONGLY using someone who uses Kinnser. It is an awesome computer charting program.

I think there is a forum on her for HH nurses. The paperwork (OASIS) is overwhelming at first. And really a pain in the you know what. So, take sime time to learn the questions, and what MO's are. That will help with recert's, Post hospital's, etc.

RNRutRO · Jan 12, 2009

Good luck! If you have any questions, PM me. I'll do what I can to help.

It's hard to break down the pay per hour because some visits are short, and other's involve more time. Five pt's a day is considered full time, although, you can easily see five, depending on distance, in a few hours.

If you are lucky, someone will take you and "orient" you to the paperwork, process, rules of Medicare, etc. Take them up on as much as you can get. I learned the hard way, because I wanted to get out on my own. In the long run, it will save you time and frustration.

Good luck!