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Understanding Private Duty Nursing vs. Home Health Care

Published On
March 16, 2025
While "private duty nursing" and "home health care" are often used interchangeably, they serve different purposes.

Private Duty Nursing provides individualized, skilled nursing care by registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs) in the home. This service is ideal for patients needing ongoing medical support due to chronic illnesses, post-operative recovery, or severe disabilities. Private duty nurses handle tasks like medication management and wound care.

Home Health Care offers a wider range of services, including nursing care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and assistance with daily living activities. Often prescribed by a physician, this care is typically short-term and focuses on rehabilitation after hospitalization or surgery.

Key Differences:
  1. Scope of Services: Private duty nursing focuses on medical care; home health care includes both medical and non-medical services.
  2. Provider Types: Private duty nurses are RNs or LPNs, while home health care involves a multidisciplinary team, including therapists and aides.
  3. Duration of Care: Private duty nursing tends to be long-term, whereas home health care is usually short-term.
BrightStar Care in East Orlando and Lake Nona offers tailored services for those needing skilled nursing or assistance with daily activities.

For more information, visit BrightStar Care East Orlando & Lake Nona(Opens in a new window)