You are a home health assistant (HHA) and you are directly responsible for the well-being of your client. They help clients live independently and with dignity, despite any impairments, chronic illness or impairments.
Your responsibilities may include dressing, bathing, and checking the vitals of your clients.
In reality, however, you are more than just someone who helps clients with their daily tasks. You are the trusted and comforting presence in your client’s (and their families’) lives as an HHA.
Although it can be very rewarding to work as an HHA, it is also quite demanding.
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This is a list that you should follow when caring for home health aide clients.
- All changes in the health status of your patient should be reported to your nurse or agency
You will learn about the client’s underlying health condition and the symptoms they are likely to experience. As you spend time with your client, you will also get a sense for what is normal for them.
You must notify your client’s healthcare provider immediately if you notice anything unusual with their client’s health. Even though it may not seem to be a major problem, it could indicate a serious health issue.
You must ensure that your client has the contact information of their medical provider in order to make things run smoothly.
It will most likely not be a major problem, but it is better than being sorry.
- If you have any questions about your patient, ask someone.
You will need to be informed about your client’s medical history and their preferences regarding daily activities, recreation, and any other relevant information.
As you progress, however, you might find yourself asking more questions, particularly in the initial stages.
If you have any questions, don’t be afraid to ask. You can speak to your client, their family members or their healthcare provider.
Clearing up any questions will help you provide the best possible care for your client. This will also ensure that your working relationship with your client will continue to thrive.
- Follow the care plan of your patient
This should be obvious. This means that you must adhere to the care plan of your patient, whether it is assistance with daily activities, administering medicine, checking their vitals or any other aspect.
As you become familiar with your patient, it is important to have a clear understanding of the patient’s care plans during the training phase.
As we have already explained, it is possible that you will need additional information as you begin caring for your client. In this case, don’t be afraid to ask questions.
- If you have any questions, call your agency
The client and their family may not know the answer depending on the situation.
If you have any questions, contact your Home Care Agency. You are ultimately responsible for the care you provide. It is best to consult your agency to find out what they recommend.
This type of situation is most likely to arise at the beginning of your relationship. You will soon have very few questions as you become more familiar with your client.
- Work on time and accurately record your time
Being consistent is an important aspect of being trustworthy and reliable.
This means being on time and showing up at work every day. You can cause distress by not being there on time if you are caring for someone who is dependent on you for food, bathing, dressing, and other tasks.
There are always exceptions to the rule.
Communication is key in such situations.
Text or call your client to let them know you will be late so they are prepared.
It is important to accurately record your time with each client you work with.
- Respect your agency’s dress code and conduct guidelines
You’ll get to know your clients better and become more comfortable with each other as you work together.
It is very beneficial to get closer to clients. It is a positive thing to feel a connection with your client. This will help you care for them better and provide emotional support for those who may otherwise feel isolated by their disability.
As you become more familiar with your client, it might be tempting to let go of your professional standards.
However, you must adhere to the dress code and conduct rules of your agency.
Remember that you are still providing a service, and that your clients expect the best from you when it comes down to how you interact with them.
- Keep your in- and physical services current
It is important to ensure that all training, including in-services, is up-to-date. For Medicare reimbursement, there might be requirements that aides must complete an annual amount of in-service training.
Get information from your agency about your specific training needs. Then, be proactive about maintaining your training.
A physical exam may also be required.
This is all to ensure your client is safe and receives the best care possible, in accordance with current regulations and requirements.
