Information / Prep for homecare jobs

[priorityjuggler]

Does anyone have a link, for information one could read to help prepare for working in the home health care setting?

Topics that would be helpful would include: trachs and vents, g-tube, j-tube, things to watch out for, common problems, pediatric issues and common diagnosis... and anything else I may not have thought about?

Other helpful information would be explanations of what common cases have entailed, and how you've enjoyed working in this field.

I thank you ahead of time for any input or help adding to the knowledge pool.

[rafv]

Would also love any info about home health. I just accepted a position and have orientation next week!

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

Oh my goodness. There are so many texts and journals for home care - just Google & you'll discover the listing.

I have had the privilege of working with home care agencies to develop training and education programs over the years. Prior to this exposure, I had no idea of the uniqueness of this practice area. Basic practice issues like infection control, patient safety, medication administration... all are quite different. For instance, those of us in acute care have never even had to conduct an environmental assessment as part of our patient care planning - but this is a routine aspect of home care. Hopefully, your new employer will provide an adequate clinical orientation rather than just focusing on reimbursement & documentation which is (unfortunately) the norm.

A great first step would be to visit the Home Care specialty forum here on AN.

Best of luck in your new job. I hope your transition is easy and you grow to love it as much as my ex-ICU nurse colleagues have!

[priorityjuggler]

I applied, was nervous, and got handed a knowledge test, and never heard back from them. Based on the knowledge test I could see tons of things to work on, it'd be nice to not go in feeing clueless, then dumb after the test.

[priorityjuggler]

share how it goes please :) also time lines are great.