What are The Different Types of Caregiving Services for Home Care?
Finding the right caregiver can take some time. There are very different types of services offered, and you want to make sure that the person you hire is qualified for the job you need them to do and has the right people skills to handle your loved one at their best and their worst. In fact, hiring a caregiver can actually be a very emotional process. At 24/7 Nursing Care, we have access to a network of highly qualified caregivers in several different levels of care. When you are considering a caregiver to come work in your home or the home of your loved one, consider these different types of caregiving services for home care.
Caregivers without Medical Care
Companion Care
If you need someone to come to your home to simply provide light housework or engage your loved one in activities such as puzzles, a walk, or watching TV, you may want to consider a companion caregiver. Companion caregivers are not medical professionals, so there are limitations to what they can do from a medical standpoint, but they are an excellent option for patients who need little medical attention on a daily basis.
Home Health Aide (HHA)
Home Health Aides are similar to companions but have a different style of training. They can assist with daily tasks such as dressing and eating. If your loved one needs assistance getting in and out of bed and to the bathroom, a Home Health Aide can help with that. They can also prepare meals and do some shopping and help your loved one manage their money. These professionals do not have medical degrees of any kind, so they are also best for patients who do not need regular medical attention.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
A Certified Nursing Assistant must work under the supervision of a Registered Nurse or a Licensed Practical Nurse. They cannot administer medication but can assist a patient who self-administers medication by providing water to take the pills or by reminding the patient when it is time to take their own medication. A CNA can also assist the patient while bathing and dressing, eating, getting to the toilet, and with oral care. CNAs also must have great verbal and written communication skills to discuss the patient’s health with a supervising Registered Nurse or Licensed Practical Nurse.
Caregivers that Can Provide Medical Care
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
An LPN is what we call a “skilled” service provider meaning that they can administer medication and attend to a wound as long as a physician orders it. LPNs work directly under the supervision of a Registered Nurse or a doctor. They can conduct medical assessments such as providing an IV drip or catheters, checking blood pressure, as well as assist with bathing and bed transfers and provide basic care for people with a severe disability or who are ill, injured, or of a certain advanced age.
Registered Nurse (RN)
An RN is also a skilled service provider who can administer medication and take care of wounds under the direct supervision of a doctor. RNs provide the highest level of in-home care and can perform diagnostic tests and create care plans. These types of caregivers can manage the other caretakers in the patient’s life. RNs are best for patients who require consistent medical attention, who have a severe injury, or are recovering from a serious surgery.
At 24/7 Nursing Care, we offer services ranging from primary caregiving needs to very specialized services for patients who have dementia and Alzheimer’s. We even provide nanny care and post-surgery relief for other clients who have particular caregiving needs. If you need a caregiver for a short time or more long term, we can discuss with you the best option to fit your needs.
Contact us to learn more about these different types of caregiving services for home care. We look forward to serving you!
info@24-7nursingcare.info
(855) 687 – 7344
