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Top 3 Questions Every Parent Should Ask When Hiring an At-Home Pediatric Skilled Nurse

September 27, 2022
Hiring an at-home pediatric skilled nurse can be difficult for any parent. Not only is it essential to find someone who is qualified and experienced, but it is also important to find someone who will be a good fit for your family. To help you make the best decision possible, here are three questions that every parent should ask when hiring an at-home pediatric skilled nurse.



What is an At-Home Pediatric Skilled Nurse?

An at-home pediatric skilled nurse is a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse who provides skilled nursing care to a child in the child's home. In addition, the at-home pediatric skilled nurse may care for a child who is recovering from an illness or injury, has special needs, or is terminally ill. The at-home pediatric skilled nurse works under the direction of a physician and may also collaborate with other members of the child's healthcare team.

The tasks also vary depending on the patient's needs. For example, some patients require only a certain number of hours a day of care, while others need help throughout the day. 
 

What are the Benefits of Hiring an At-Home Pediatric Skilled Nurse? 

Parents looking for quality pediatric care for their children should consider hiring an at-home pediatric skilled nurse. Skilled nurses care for children and can provide vital support to the child and families. Some of the benefits of hiring a skilled nurse include: 

1. Improved quality of life for the child - A skilled nurse can provide around-the-clock care and support to the child, which can improve the child's quality of life. In addition, home care allows the child to recover in a comfortable environment since the child is accustomed to the familiar setting of their home. As a result, home care encourages speedy recovery and decreases visits to the hospital. Having a skilled nurse at home also benefits children with chronic conditions who find it beneficial to recover in a comfortable environment. 

2. Reduced stress for the parents - Hiring a skilled nurse can reduce stress for the parents, as they will have someone they can trust to take care of their child. At-home Pediatratic Skilled Nurses ensure families are well-prepared for unforeseen events and emergencies. Doing so creates a healthy environment for everyone involved, making at-home care a conducive place for recovery and growth for the child. 

Home care is also a great way to develop confidence in parents by educating them on ways to take care of their children should there be any sudden changes in the situation. By being well-prepared, parents have a better understanding of their child's needs while also establishing their role in the care of their child during recovery. 

3. Treatment Plans That Accommodate Your Child'sChild's Needs - There are a lot of treatment plans that are best executed in the patient's own home. At-home pediatric nurses can assess and adjust the treatment plan depending on the home and the child's environment. The ability to customize your child's treatment plan is a great way to understand the child's needs and what approach benefits the child's recovery process. 
 

Three Questions When Hiring an At-Home Pediatric Skilled Nurse

What are the nurse's qualifications? 

Qualifications are important when hiring any type of nurse, especially when hiring an at-home pediatric skilled nurse. It is important to check that the nurse has the proper training and experience to care for your child. Ask about their experience with children with special needs and their experience in home health care. Make sure to also ask about their licensing and insurance. By checking the nurse's qualifications, you can be sure your child is in good hands.

It is also important to ensure that the nurse you hire is properly licensed and insured. In addition, you will want to ask about their experience working with children of all ages. By doing so, you can assess whether the nurse's history and experience align with your child's requirements during recovery. Moreover, focusing on their qualifications can be a great way to see if they are a good fit for your child's treatment plan and if they can understand your child's condition thoroughly enough. 
 

What are the nurse's hours of availability? 

Searching for the right at-home pediatric nurse for your child must ensure their schedule is compatible with yours. Doing so helps organize and prepare a scheduled routine for your child's needs when it comes to recovery and proper intervention. 

You must ensure that the nurse you hire is available when you need them. For example, if you have a young child who needs around-the-clock care, you will want to ensure that the nurse you hire can work those hours.


How Efficient are the Nurse'sNurse's Communication Skills?

It is vital to establish good communication skills, rapport, and chemistry when it comes to at-home pediatric nursing. Communication skills are one of the most significant aspects when hiring a pediatric nurse to take care of your child, especially since they will be at home regularly. More importantly, how well does the nurse get along with your child? These are important aspects to look into before committing. 

Another factor to consider is their overall approach to pediatric care. Are the methods they use conducive to the intervention required for your child? How participative is your child during these sessions? Consider multiple approaches that fit both parents and child to create long-lasting rapport with the at-home pediatric nurse. Focusing on these factors makes your child's recovery beneficial for the entire family. 
 

Contact BrightStar Care of Howard County Today

If you have questions regarding our services in Howard County, MD, or want to book a free home visit, please contact us at 410-910-9425. Our website also includes a contact form that you can use to get in touch with us. It will be a pleasure to meet you and your family, and we look forward to providing you with the care and support you need.