A private duty nurse can provide home health care.
A private duty nurse is a licensed nurse who provides home health care or is hired to provide personal care to a patient in an institution, such as a hospital or nursing home. To become a private duty nurse, you must first qualify as a nurse under the laws of your country or region. Education requirements generally include a degree from an approved institution, an associate’s degree, or a bachelor’s degree. Many candidates choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree to gain an edge in the competitive job market. Once a degree or diploma is obtained, a national certification test may also be required.
Private duty nurses are responsible for performing specialized medical tasks and taking a patient’s vital signs.
Nursing is a skilled profession that requires specialized training. Many countries recognize and authorize various levels of nursing practice. Educational requirements range from diploma training programs to advanced graduate programs. The licensing process for nurses may also include passing an exam as well as a background check.
A private duty nurse is distinguished from a home health aide by her professional qualifications, as well as the tasks for which she is qualified. While the nurse may also provide assistance with hygiene and help with feeding, she is more likely to perform specialized medical tasks such as wound care, blood tests, and taking vital signs. Some home health aides and nursing assistants end up choosing to meet the appropriate requirements and become private duty nurses.
A private duty nurse may work in a nursing home with the elderly.
If you are a registered nurse under the laws in your area, you can become a private duty nurse by contacting your local home health agencies and nursing registries. Some of these companies may have additional requirements for their nurses, such as prior nursing experience and continuing education beyond what is required for license renewal. If you live in a large urban area, there may be several agencies and registries to choose from. Interviewing several can increase your chances of finding the job that’s right for you.
Compassion is a big part of working with the elderly.
Another option is to become a private duty nurse simply by connecting with clients on your own. If this is legal in your area, you can connect with local social service agencies, nursing homes, and other organizations to get your name in the hands of people who need your services. One drawback to working independently is that you won’t have the ability to consult with other professionals about a patient’s care. You’ll also likely need to get your own liability insurance, and you may not have backup ready if you’re out of town or sick and unable to work.