Reference from patient's family

[ImmaRNnow]

I've worked as a Home Health Aide for years and one of the patient I cared for has a close family member, their power of attorney, who wants to give me a reference letter. I work through the agency, not direct hire. I need a professional one for the RN job I'm applying to, so I'm wondering can the family member's letter be counted as a professional reference letter?

[elkpark]

Potential employers typically want references from other healthcare professionals with whom you've worked.

[ladyandthetiger]

I have a portfolio which I take to interviews with me. Inside it has my resume, current registration certificate, current ALS certification, degrees, academic transcripts, academic awards, letters of reference categorised by type (employer, patients, students I've tutored) letters of recognition for outstanding teamwork, etc and copies of learning packages and projects (non proprietary) I've written. Not only does it keep all these documents safe, tidy and well preserved but also allows me to show these as evidence when asked about my experience and things listed on my resume.

Every nurse should start one as it really impresses at job interviews and that letter is exactly the kind of thing that you would put in your portfolio.

[amoLucia]

Could that kind of more personal type of reference be possible without blowing up some HIPAA dust?

I guess the pt name could be omitted, but then how would the veracity of the case be confirmed?

[caliotter3]

Could that kind of more personal type of reference be possible without blowing up some HIPAA dust?

I guess the pt name could be omitted, but then how would the veracity of the case be confirmed?

Perhaps ask the reference to include a disclaimer regarding HIPAA at the end of written references or when giving their contact information?