Initial Assessment: Conduct a thorough assessment of the patient’s physical, mental, and emotional condition when starting care. This includes evaluating vital signs (blood pressure, temperature, heart rate, etc.), reviewing medical history, and determining the patient's needs.
Ongoing Monitoring: Regularly monitor and track changes in the patient’s condition, including vital signs, symptoms, pain levels, and overall well-being.
Assessing Patient Environment: Ensure that the home environment is safe and conducive to the patient’s health and well-being, making recommendations for modifications if necessary.
Wound Assessment and Care: Clean and dress wounds, manage dressings, and ensure that wounds are healing properly.
Post-Surgical Care: Monitor surgical sites, check for infections, and provide instructions for at-home recovery.
Administering Medications: Administer prescribed medications, including injections, IVs, and oral medications. Ensure the patient is taking medications as prescribed.
Medication Education: Educate the patient and caregivers about the purpose, dosage, potential side effects, and importance of adhering to medication regimens.
Monitoring Side Effects: Observe for any adverse reactions or side effects from medications and report them to the physician.
Health Education: Educate patients and family members on managing chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypertension), post-operative care, and preventive measures to improve health outcomes.
Caregiver Training: Provide guidance to family members or caregivers on how to assist with daily activities, medications, and other care tasks.
Psychosocial Support: Offer emotional support, counseling, and encouragement to both the patient and family members, especially in cases of chronic illness or end-of-life care.
Personal Care Assistance: Assist patients with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting, when needed.
Mobility Support: Help patients with mobility challenges, such as transferring from bed to chair or using mobility aids.
Collaborating with the Healthcare Team: Work with doctors, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and social workers to develop and update the care plan.
Implementing the Plan: Carry out the prescribed treatments, monitor progress, and adjust the care plan as needed.
Monitoring Chronic Conditions: Help manage chronic conditions by tracking patient symptoms, assisting with medication management, and educating the patient on lifestyle changes that can improve health (e.g., diet, exercise).
Managing Complications: Respond to and manage any complications that arise, such as infections, pressure ulcers, or respiratory issues.
Record Keeping: Keep accurate and up-to-date records of all care provided, including observations, assessments, treatments, and patient responses.
Reporting to Supervisors and Physicians: Communicate patient progress or concerns to physicians, other healthcare providers, and the patient's family members.
Pain Management: Administer pain relief measures as prescribed, monitor the patient’s comfort levels, and offer emotional support to the patient and family.
End-of-Life Care: Provide compassionate care to patients at the end of life, ensuring dignity and comfort, and offer guidance to families navigating this difficult time.