If you want a nursing career that’s rewarding on multiple levels, consider becoming a home health care nurse. These medical professionals provide important care to patients residing at home instead of within a hospital. The outpatients receiving care might be an elderly person, or someone with a serious disease, injury, or disability.
Working in home health care allows nurses to truly make a personal connection with their patients. As such, this medical career path makes perfect sense for healthcare professionals with a strong sense of empathy.
Let’s take a closer look at this nursing niche to learn more about the required skills and experience.
Educational and Licensing Requirements for Home Care Nurses
Most home care nursing jobs require at least an RN license. Note that some organizations consider LPN candidates for this role, due to the current nursing shortage and strong demand. However, you stand a better chance of earning an interview and job offer by being a registered nurse.
Most home care nurses have an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Keep these educational requirements in mind if you want to explore job opportunities within this nursing niche. If considering home care nursing as a career option, expect at least two to four years of schooling. After passing the NCLEX-RN exam, gaining two years of clinical experience qualifies you for home care nursing positions.
Typical Duties of a Home Care Nurse
Home care nurses work for a variety of medical organizations. These range anywhere from a company providing home health care services to hospitals with a similar service. Hospice providers and some governmental agencies also provide home health care services. Needless to say, after becoming a licensed and experienced RN, opportunities abound for home health care nurses.
Your duties ultimately depend on the patients under your care. Home care nurses regularly administer medication and IVs, clean and dress wounds, and draw blood for labs. Helping patients with their hygiene and bathing might be required, depending on their needs. Expect to also serve as a communication conduit to the supervising doctor or APRN.
Salary Expectations for Home Care Nurses
Home health care nurses enjoy a salary commensurate with other RNs. The average annual salary ranges anywhere from $70,000 to $95,000, depending on experience and the local cost of living. While the lucrative salary offers some reward, empathic nurses gain the additional benefit of helping patients. Once again, this is the right niche for nurses looking to make true connections with those under their care.
If you are interested in home health care nursing opportunities, connect with the recruiters at CHN Health Care Group. As one of the top medical staffing agencies in Boston, we know the organizations looking for talented RNs. Reach out to us at your earliest convenience.