Do you have a loved whom you feel is beginning to need assistance with chores and daily living tasks? Or, has your loved one just been discharged from a hospital and has a condition that requires you to provide additional in-home care? Both questions pose a challenge to concerned family members who need to find a provider who is able to assist them. Making an informative decision regarding the short or long-tern care of a loved one requires you to ask many questions. Here is some basic information that will guide you to finding a solution that meets your needs.
Private Duty Nursing Agencies (PDNA) can provide medical and non-medical care. Medical skilled care can be provided by a registered nurse (RN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN). Nursing assistants can provide non-medical and personalized care, along with assistance with the activities of daily living. Services can be provided where ever the patient calls home. Many individuals are concerned with the care their loved one might receive while in the hospital or a facility, due to the shortage of nursing staff. The extent of care a PDNA can provide will depend on the facility’s policies. However, many relatives just want a qualified and skilled caregiver to be in the room to provide immediate assistance to their loved one should the need arise. Additional services can be provided such as: bathing and dressing, meal preparation and eating, medication reminders, range of motion exercising, light housekeeping and transportation to medical appointments.
Non-medical services can include companionship, transportation, meal preparation, medication reminders and errands. Some companies are strictly non-medical and help with custodial services when hands on care is not required. This should be kept in mind when arranging for service. If a patient’s condition should change and require hands on care, you may have to change agencies to provide the medical care needed which is often confusing for the patient.
The following are some questions you should ask a PDNA: Are interviews conducted face to face? Are professional references, criminal background, licenses and certifications checked? Is there a TB testing requirement?
Some additional questions would include:
*How long has the PDNA been in existence?
*How long will it take to start service?
*Is a deposit required?
*Who establishes the day and time services will be provided, you or the PDNA?
*Can you increase or decrease the coverage immediately or is notice required and if so, how much notice?
*Should the regular caregiver not be able to come, is a replacement sent?
*Are there a minimum number of hours per day and days per week required?
*Are office personnel available 24/7?
*What is the cost per hour?
Cost is important because PDNA services are primarily out of pocket expenses. If the patient has long-term health insurance some of the costs may be covered. You want to check the policy.
Whether your loved one has long or short-term, medical or non-medical needs, looking for help can be a stressful and seemingly daunting task. Hopefully you will find this information helpful in making an informative decision.
Nurses Available, Inc. is a Private Duty Nursing/Staffing Agency with location in Lancaster and Reading, PA and Towson, MD. For more information, call 293-0700 or 800-385-1851 |
