It is a stressful time for parents of a child with special needs when the child has been ill, hospitalized, or finally coming home for the very first time. The nurse case manager may be a wealth of information but it can also be very overwhelming for parents. Here are a few tips when considering a Pediatric Home Care Agency.
- Look for an agency that specializes in Pediatric Home Care if possible. Agencies that provide care for both adult and pediatric clients may not be as specialized as your child needs or may need to send a nurse to your home that is more comfortable with adults. Choosing a pediatric agency ensures that all nurses being sent to care for your child are trained in the care of children.
- Ask about licensing regulations and how the agency you are considering is regulated. It is important to understand that all agencies are NOT licensed the same and you will want to choose an agency that is strictly regulated in your state to ensure that your child gets the safest care.
- Ask how the nurses that may be coming to your home have been screened for safety and for skills. It is important to know that the nurses have had background checks and that they have been trained by a reputable school of nursing.
- Look for an agency that provides good orientation to your child and is proficient in teaching the nurses the skills needed for the care of your child. Most licensed pediatric agencies have a pediatric education program within their organization to make certain that each nurse who may care for your child has the skills and education to do it in a safe and efficient manner.
- Make certain you know your financial responsibility, if any, for the care being provided in your home. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and to search more than one agency if you don’t get the answers you want. Reputable agencies have no problem being questioned and will offer you information openly: you just have to know what to ask.
- Prepare to be open and honest about the expectations of the nurses in your home and be prepared to provide clean areas in your home where the nurse may prepare formula, wash his/her hands, and use the restroom in the course of the shift they are in your home.
It is an adjustment for any family with a special needs child to bring nurses (virtual strangers) into their home. The rewards for your child are most often worth the sacrifice. Planning and research can make the experience one of the best there is in providing what your child needs. Doing your research and asking the right questions can lead to the right choice for your child.
Terri Forehand RN
Clinical Manager, Loving Care Agency
http://heartfeltwords4kids.blogspot.com
Written by Anissa Wardell - Contact your local Congressman to make a difference!
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