Home Health Aide, Home Health
Overview
Provides personal care and emotional support and other duties as assigned by the Registered Nurse or Therapist in accordance with a written plan of care and the HHA scope of practice. Performs other duties as assigned.
Responsibilities
- Provides age-specific assistance to patients to achieve maximum self-reliance within medically determined limitations and according to the HHA Care Plan developed by the RN/PT/ST/OT.
- Assists the patient with personal hygiene, according to the HHA Care Plan, including: Bed/sponge/tub bath or shower; perineal care; hair care, including shampoo, brushing or combing; care of feet and nails; and oral hygiene. Can apply medicated shampoo and/or shampoo requiring a physician prescription. Provides skin care and preventative skin care using only non-medicated or non-prescription products. May provide oral suctioning as part of mouth care. May not trim nails on a patient with conditions that might involve peripheral circulatory problems or patients with hx of diabetes. May assist patient with shaving only with an electric or safety razor.
- Assists patient with dressing. May apply support stockings that can be purchased without a physician prescription. May apply physician prescribed support stockings if trained and competency tested.
- Assists patient with exercises, including passive assistance limited to normal bodily movement. May encourage a prescribed exercise program.
- Assists the patient with functional activities under the direction of the RN or PT/ST/OT including: ambulation and transfers, whether full or partial assist, and use of toilet/commode/ bedpan or urinal. Uses assistive devices such as walker, cane, wheelchair, gait belt and Hoyer lift appropriately
- May provide ostomy care limited to emptying ostomy bags and removing/replacing clip on bags and pouches, and may empty or change urinary catheter bags.
- May provide medication reminders when medications are preselected and stored in medication minders or pill boxes. Medication reminders include inquiries as to whether medications were taken.
- Assists with normal feeding when patient can independently swallow and can be positioned upright. May not feed a patient who has been determined to be at a high risk for choking.
- Accurately measures and records vital signs; measures and records weight, as indicated by RN/PT/OT/ST
- Performs simple household chores necessary to maintain patient hygiene and safety.
- Reports changes in patient’s condition, pain and other safety/compliance related issues to Case Manager and/or supervisor; appropriately records patient observations using agency documentation and submits within agency specified time frames. Recognizes and promptly reports any changes in skin condition.
- Uses age appropriate therapeutic communication techniques, including active listening skills; provides emotional support during all stages of illness, including the end of life, to patient and families; maintains appropriate boundaries and professional relationships with patients and families. May orient patient to person, time and place.
- Demonstrates proper use of PPP, hand washing and bag technique to promote infection control and safety.
- Assumes accountability for assigned equipment (both medical and computer equipment as applicable)
- Attends mandatory in-services and attains a minimum of twelve hours of in-service/continuing education annually; appropriately documents in-service hours.
Education and Experience
High school diploma or equivalent.
Certification/Licensure
Proof of CNA certification by the state of Wisconsin
Approved CPR or BLS certification required within 90 days of hire
Maintain a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation with proof of vehicle insurance when requested.
Have and maintain an acceptable driving record per Mercy’s HR-01 Fleet Safety policy.
Special Physicial Demands
The Special Physical Demands are considered Essential Job Functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodations.
While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand and walk. The employee is occasionally required to sit and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision and ability to adjust focus.
Culture of Excellence Behavior Expectations
To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following behavior expectations:
Quality - Follows policies and procedures; adapts to and manages changes in the environment; Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness giving attention to details; Looks for ways to improve and promote quality; Applies feedback to improve performance; Manages time and prioritizes effectively to achieve organizational goals.
Service - Responds promptly to requests for service and assistance; Follows the Mercyhealth Critical Moments of service; Meets commitments; Abides by MH confidentiality and security agreement; Shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences; and effectively communicates information to partners; Thinks system wide regarding processes and functions.
Partnering - Shows commitment to the Mission of Mercyhealth and Culture of Excellence through all words and actions; Exhibits objectivity and openness to other's views; Demonstrates a high level of participation and engagement in day-to-day work; Gives and welcomes feedback; Generates suggestions for improving work: Embraces teamwork, supports and encourages positive change while giving value to individuals.
Cost - Conserves organization resources; Understands fiscal responsibility; Works within approved budget; Develops and implements cost saving measures; contributes to profits and revenue.