Many seniors choose to age in place for the comfort and familiarity that living at home can provide. In fact, multiple studies show that safely aging in place can lead to a better quality of life and improved overall health outcomes compared to living in a group facility or senior center. Seniors enjoy independent living and do not want to be confined in a living facility. However, as seniors’ needs change over time, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can become a challenge for seniors and their family caregivers. When facing health issues like a new diagnosis, chronic condition, or serious illness, understanding the palliative options available is an important factor in planning a senior’s continuum of care. Healthcare access is a major social determinant for seniors, and being able to receive medical and personal care at home goes a long way toward overall quality of life. Not sure if palliative care is the right in-home option for your needs? Here’s how our skilled nurses at NurseRegistry help seniors across California successfully age in place. What is In-Home Palliative Care?Palliative care is a form of patient-centered care offered to anyone who needs pain or symptom management from surgery, chronic conditions, or life-threatening illness. Palliative care doesn’t replace other medical treatments. Instead, our nurses work alongside a senior’s new or existing healthcare team to help provide comfort and specialized individual care. Whether a senior is in active treatment or if they’re nearing the end of life, our in-home palliative care services aim to help improve a senior’s quality of life and these services are available at any stage of an illness, regardless of whether a condition can be cured. Something to note is palliative care is not the same thing as hospice care. While palliative care is always provided as a part of a hospice care plan, hospice is meant for a senior’s end-of-life care, not just for managing their condition. In fact, hospice care, even in a community setting, does very little to treat a condition and is mainly intended to ease pain and increase comfort level. Do know that whatever illness you face, our Care Coordinators will match you with a nurse best suited to your changing needs and preferences. What Are the Benefits of Palliative Care?Multiple studies conclude that patients with serious illnesses benefit from palliative care, especially when included in the early stages of treatment. Because palliative care is tailored to fit a patient’s needs and health status, nurses can provide a wide range of services to help seniors with the pain, symptoms, and stress an illness can bring. This can make all the difference while aging in place. Here are some benefits seniors and caregivers can expect to receive from our skilled nursing staff. Pain and Symptom ManagementFor seniors diagnosed with aggressive forms of cancer, the combination of either chemotherapy or radiation treatments can cause symptoms like nausea, fatigue, weight loss, and more. NurseRegistry’s specialized oncology nurses can help seniors throughout their treatment journey to ease their pain and improve comfort, so they aren’t derailed by the more unpleasant side effects of treatment. Again, since these services can be offered to anyone suffering from any condition, palliative care for cancer patients has become more prevalent over the years. Seniors experiencing chronic respiratory issues can benefit from palliative care, too. Our skilled nursing staff provides specialty services, such as respiratory management, to help seniors and caregivers with tracheostomy care, ventilator, CPAP, and BiPAP monitoring. Nurses can also assist with administering oxygen and breathing treatments or exercises, amongst other things. Physical and Emotional SupportFamily caregivers often feel overwhelmed and unequipped to provide the attention and medical care needed to help seniors safely age in place. Palliative care can help seniors and caregivers deal with both the physical and emotional hurdles that come with a serious health issue. Our nurses can provide medical support for Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), vital sign monitoring, wound care, medication management, and other services as requested. Heightened emotions such as anxiety, fear, anger, or depression can magnify certain symptoms associated with an illness. Palliative care providers offer a whole-person approach to treatment by assessing how a senior is managing emotionally and modifying care for increased comfort and peace of mind. For caregivers and seniors alike, our nurses can listen to any fears, questions, or concerns they may experience and help find resources and support they need for their specific needs. Continuity of CareAs a senior’s needs change, skilled nurses can educate patients, family members, and caregivers to provide an ongoing and up-to-date care plan. Our nurses help to bridge the communication gap between a senior’s case manager and health team, allowing them to respond quickly and provide the best care possible if a condition becomes more complex. Our staff can also help reduce the stresses of the unexpected by helping seniors and their loved ones create a long-term care plan that allows them to safely and happily continue to age in place. NurseRegistry nurses can provide palliative care to seniors by improving their quality of life as they age in place. This also allows respite care for family members of the elderly individual. If you have a senior loved one who could benefit from an in-home palliative care nurse, visit click below or call 866-916-8773 to speak with one of our Intake Specialists. The post Understanding Home-Based Palliative Care for Seniors Aging in Place appeared first on NurseRegistry.The post Understanding Home-Based Palliative Care for Seniors Aging in Place appeared first on NurseRegistry.
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Every industry has its nuances, and the healthcare industry is no different. If you’re not in the healthcare industry, it can be difficult to differentiate between treatment plans, diagnoses, and even healthcare professionals. Whether you are looking for private home care or are embarking on a new career, you may be wondering what the difference between a caregiver and a nurse is. Let’s break down three main differences and then dive further into what a nurse and caregiver do.
How is a Nurse Different Than a Caregiver?1. Job Duties and ResponsibilitiesAt a very baseline level, it is important to note that job responsibilities and tasks differ greatly for nurses and caregivers. A caregiver does not perform any medical duties for their clients. Typically, a caregiver will assist patients who need minimal care. Instead, they provide care in a variety of other tasks, such as dressing, cooking, cleaning, hygiene, and even running errands. The caregiver adds companionship and assistance in the day-to-day life of their client without offering explicit medical care. On the other hand, a licensed and certified nurse can accomplish all of a caregiver’s tasks and provide medical care. While a nurse will not provide a diagnosis or perform any particular treatment without a physician’s documented clearing, a nurse can measure a patient’s vitals, and provide medication management, wound care, and hospice care. With a doctor’s approval, a nurse can also complete tasks such as medical injections and IV therapy. In addition, nurses can provide assessments and be an advocate on your behalf when presenting information to your physician. Summary: Caregivers may provide assistance with daily tasks, chores, and errands but cannot complete medical duties. Nurses can provide these daily tasks and complete medical duties with a doctor’s approval.
2. Training and EducationParticular training is subject to specific states, but most caregiving requires 40 hours of training. This involves first aid skills and how to successfully perform CPR. Additionally, caregivers may learn safety protocols that protect their patients during daily tasks such as walking, bathing, and eating. To become a caregiver in California, you must:
Nurses, both RNs and LVNs, must go through extensive training and certification to provide expert medical care. When attending nursing school, prospects have options such as:
To obtain an RN in California, a prospective nurse must meet all education requirements, pass a criminal background check, and pass the national licensing exam. In addition to completing the initial training and certification, nurses must also recertify their license every two years. In California, RNs must complete 30 hours of continuing education to maintain an active license and LVNs must complete 30 contact hours of continuing education every 3 years to renew their license with an active status. Summary: Caregiving requires 40 hours, or more, of training such as CPR training and safety protocols. Nurses must attend nursing school to earn their Associate, Bachelor, or Masters degree and complete a national licensing exam. Continuing education and license renewal are critical for nurses, as well.
3. Work OpportunitiesFor the most part, caregivers find themselves working in clients’ homes where they can provide the non-medical assistance that these patients need—particularly our senior population. Again, this involves assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as walking, cleaning, bathing, and eating. Registered nurses can work in a variety of settings. RNs and LVNs may work in:
Due to being able to provide medical care and the additional education and training, nurses have significantly more work opportunities than caregivers, especially per diem nurses. However, it is also important to note that the barrier to entry is much more difficult for RNs and LVNs compared to caregivers. Summary: Caregivers often work in their client’s homes and offer assistance with daily tasks. Nurses find themselves in a multitude of work environments, such as hospitals, client homes, skilled nursing facilities, medical centers, and more.
Nurse vs. Caregiver: More DetailsNow you have a better understanding of how job responsibilities, education, and work opportunities differ between caregivers and nurses. Do you still want a little bit more information in terms of what a caregiver is and what a nurse is? Let’s dive a little further into each profession.
What is a Caregiver?Professional caregivers are a benefit to folks, often elderly, that do not require medical care but need assistance in their day-to-day tasks to continue living a high quality of life. Rather than medical care, caregivers often provide a personal touch and may develop a strong bond with their clients over many days, weeks, and months of assistance. Caregiver duties are often completed in the patient’s home and can include tasks such as:
Caregivers are instrumental in allowing senior citizens to stay in their private residences and live happily in their homes rather than moving into a nursing home or assisted living facility. This type of freedom and agency that senior patients can keep in their daily life is invaluable. As we previously mentioned, the education requirements for a caregiver are not extensive, especially when compared to a nurse. Pay close attention to what your individual state requires to become a professional caregiver. Requirements tend to change across the country.
Types of CaregiversPrivate duty caregiver Private duty caregivers are hired through an agency. Usually, the agency screens, insures, and bonds these caregivers. In the event that their scheduled caregiver is unable to work a shift, families can obtain a backup caregiver by working through a care agency. Since an agency is involved, these caregivers may face a more rigorous interviewing process to test qualifications before they are hired compared to other caregivers. Family caregiver Family members who opt to care for a loved one are known as family caregivers. These caregivers offer very personal care and could be spouses, children, or other relatives. In addition to their duties, they might have another job, and they typically aren’t paid for their work. Independent caregiver Independent caregivers can also be known as private caregivers, but should not be confused with private duty caregivers. Independent caregivers typically work through an agency with a set care plan and may be a cheaper option than a private duty caregiver, however, the family takes on the liability should anything happen while the caregiver is in their home. Respite caregiver A respite caregiver offers care for a period of time so that a family caregiver can take a rest and resume their daily activities for a while. These caregivers may be independent or on private duty, but the job description suggests that they are not long-term caregivers.
What is a Nurse?Nurses are healthcare professionals that offer skilled care in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, urgent care centers, skilled nursing facilities, assisted living communities, hospice centers, mental health centers, and more. Nurses can complete the daily tasks that caregivers perform, along with additional medical duties after earning their licensure. Common duties and types of care performed by nurses include:
Nurses have much stricter educational requirements than caregivers. There are several types of nursing degrees, including a Licensed practical nurse (LPN), an Associate degree in nursing (ADN), and a Bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN). Types of NursesThere are many variations and types of nurses depending on the workplace location. Let’s take a look at 3 common types of nurses. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) A certified nursing assistant must enroll in a state-approved education and receive on-the-job training. Typically CNAs are found in nursing care facilities, assisted living facilities, and hospitals. Duties may include monitoring vital signs, bathing patients, and assisting with their daily tasks and walking. Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) / Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) An LVN/LPN is a nurse that typically earned a degree in about 1 year at a community college. An LVN/LPN is more limited than an RN, but still supports the core health care team and often works under the supervision of an RN, APRN, or a doctor. LVNs/LPNs will perform general care for patients, address wounds, check vital signs, check patient comfort, and in some settings may administer medication. Registered Nurse (RN) Registered nurses provide critical care and are the backbone of the healthcare industry. RNs must earn an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), along with state certification. Registered nurses perform physical exams, provide health education, administer medication, coordinate care with physicians, and may provide additional care in the form of wound care, injections, and IV therapy.
Choose the Right Care For Your SituationIf you find yourself in a situation where your or a loved one needs assistance with daily tasks and medical care, look no further than NurseRegistry for all of your nursing needs. We only work with highly qualified RNs and LVNs and ensure your loved one receives the care and medical attention they need from the comfort of their own home. You don’t have to settle for hospitals, institutions, and assisted living facilities. Instead, choose:
If this sounds beneficial to you and your loved one’s quality of life, click below and discover how a private duty nurse from NurseRegistry can help today. The post What is the Difference Between a Nurse and a Caregiver? appeared first on NurseRegistry. The post What is the Difference Between a Nurse and a Caregiver? appeared first on NurseRegistry.
What is Parkinson's Disease? How should someone care for a Parkinson's patient in home? Click here to learn more.
When a loved one is feeling sick or ill, we will do just about anything we can to help. It’s one of our natural instincts. From grabbing prescriptions to, more recently, assisting in quarantine comfort, we all enjoy doing our part to make our sick or injured family members more comfortable. However, when it comes to Parkinson’s Disease, there is a lot to consider when taking care of a loved one at home. Let’s take a look at what exactly Parkinson’s Disease is, best practices, and things to be aware of.
What is Parkinson’s Disease?Before we get into any care tips, let’s break down exactly what Parkinson’s Disease is. Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder. Unfortunately, this means that the individual’s symptoms and difficulties increase over time. Likewise, the emphasis and level of care will have to increase as the disease progresses. Those caring for Parkinson’s patients at home will have to adapt their environment as the disease progresses, but we will touch more on that below. Anticipating the progression and symptoms of PD is critical for a home caretaker. This knowledge will allow you to plan your care and home and make the transition as seamless as it can be. Important note: caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s Disease is hard, and there should be no guilt in admitting so. You may feel it’s your responsibility single-handedly to care for them, but never be afraid or ashamed of asking for help. From friends, family, or even professional nurse staffing agencies – there are resources that can help provide some peace of mind. With that said, let’s look at exactly what you can expect.
Parkinson’s Disease Symptoms: What to ExpectNow that we have a better understanding of what Parkinson’s Disease is, what behaviors and symptoms should you be on the lookout for? Common symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease may include the following:
Symptoms of early onset Parkinson’s often begin on one side of the body and will begin affecting the entire body once the disease progresses. Important note: Parkinson’s Disease symptoms vary from person to person and are occasionally dismissed as just typical effects of aging. The subtle slower movement and impeded coordination are culprits of this dismissal. It is important to be vigilant when assessing potential Parkinson’s symptoms and always refer to a healthcare expert’s opinion.
The Stages of Parkinson’s Disease SymptomsEarly Stages Parkinson’s symptoms are typically mild in the early stages of the disease and have little to no impact on day-to-day activities. This may cause a delay in diagnosis, and as PD progresses, the symptoms increasingly become disruptive. Middle Stages The middle stages of PD are when balance problems, tremors, and falling may increase. Daily activities become more stressful for Parkinson’s patients, although up until this point these individuals likely have been able to lead an independent lifestyle. Assistance may become necessary, as walking and concise movements become more difficult. Advanced Stages The advanced stages of PD likely include delusions and dementia, in addition to significant tremors and difficulty moving. Most PD patients in the advanced stage cannot move independently and require full-time care, whether that be from family or a full-time nurse (or a combination thereof).
Home Care for Parkinson’s PatientsA great deal of home care for Parkinson’s patients is a balance between hands-on care with daily tasks along with an understanding of allowing the individual to patiently complete some activities on their own, depending on their stage of PD. Simplifying daily activities, no matter how intricate, goes a long way for those suffering from Parkinson’s Disease. The movement symptoms that accompany PD, such as tremors, overall weakness, and lack of balance, make these day-to-day activities cumbersome and even certain medications for Parkinson’s Disease can lead to side effects like lightheadedness, confusion, and drowsiness. Mundane activities that we would otherwise not think twice about can be a massive challenge for PD patients, which may cause stress, frustration, or even humiliation. Being able to provide care and peace of mind is essential. Let’s take a look at some specific daily tasks and categories and how you can help care for a Parkinson’s patient at home.
Bathing, Grooming, and Personal CareTry to use a shower if possible. Bathtubs always present a tripping and falling hazard. When bathing, have them sit on a comfortable shower stool and use a hand-held showerhead. One tip is to wrap them in an absorbent Terry cloth robe after they are finished bathing. This can assist post-bathing without having to dry themselves off with a traditional towel. Electric toothbrushes go a long way for those suffering from Parkinson’s Disease. It eliminates the need for additional hand movements. The same can be said with an electric razor. If you are taking care of their dental hygiene needs, avoid touching the back of their tongue to prevent any form of gagging, and keep a small towel or washcloth nearby in case drooling is an issue. Important note: As previously mentioned, dementia is associated with Parkinson’s Disease. In fact, it is reported by the Alzheimer’s Association that between 50% and 80% of PD patients experience symptoms of dementia. Many individuals that suffer from dementia can be frightened or confused by the feel and sound of running water. Be gentle and give them time to adapt during bathing. Patience is key.
Getting Dressed with Parkinson’s DiseaseThe dressing process for someone with Parkinson’s can be a bit labor-intensive. The tremors and muscle stiffness can cause difficulty and make the activity unpleasant. However, there are tips you can follow to alleviate some discomfort. The planning process can make getting dressed with PD much easier. Lay out clothes ahead of time to avoid stress down the road. Ask them if they have a preferred order of being dressed, and prepare the clothes in that fashion. When possible, elect clothing that is simple to put on. This can include bras that hook in the front, loose-fitting shirts, pants with elastic waistbands, and tube socks. If the Parkinson’s patient has a particular shirt or clothing item that they now have difficulty wearing, one tip is to replace buttons with velcro. Avoid shoes with rubber soles as they become a tripping and falling risk. Try to allow the PD patient to dress themselves whenever possible, but always be prepared and ready to assist. Recommend that they sit down, take it slowly, and start with the side of their body that is more impacted by the disease.
Feeding a PD PatientFiber and calcium-rich foods are beneficial to those with Parkinson’s. The fiber helps prevent constipation and calcium prevents osteoporosis, as falling and fractures are a major concern with PD patients. Fiber sources can include:
Calcium sources can include:
Some Parkinson’s patients have difficulty swallowing. If this is the case for your loved one, opt for soft, moist foods. Protein shakes and meal-replacement shakes are an option. Avoid hard foods or food that easily crumbles.
Sleep Comfort and TipsSleek, satin bedsheets can help Parkinson’s Disease patients more seamlessly slide in and out of bed compared to thicker, flannel blankets. Bedrails are useful to help maintain balance and always keep the pathway between the bed and the bathroom clear of rugs, objects, or any potential tripping hazard.
General ActivitiesDo your best to assist and encourage your loved one to continue participating in activities they love despite their progressing symptoms. In the early stages, this tends to be emotional assistance. When the symptoms progress to a point of intrusion, there are two common approaches you can take:
Assistance pertains to you helping them with their activity. Whether it is helping them hold their paintbrush if they like painting or holding an arm while going for a stroll in the park. There are also assistive technology and devices that exist for PD patients. This can include mobility aids, meal preparation, and communication aids. The other approach is adaptation. For example, let’s say they love playing a musical instrument or shooting hoops. At a certain point, the PD symptoms will become too disruptive for these activities. In that case, pivot to enjoying these activities in a different way. Listen to music more frequently or attend more concerts and symphonies. Watch athletes play basketball at the local park or attend professional sporting events. While these are not a perfect resolution to losing the ability to partake in these activities themselves, it is a way to redirect that passion and stay engaged. Relaxing activities tend to benefit PD patients and help reduce stress, which is known to make symptoms more pronounced. Aside from any daily movements or exercises their doctor may suggest, it can be helpful to exercise their jaw and face muscles by singing, reading out loud, or making silly faces. Emotional CareThe emotional care needed is a completely different component of caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s Disease. It is clear that this disease majorly impacts one’s lifestyle – from hobbies and activities to bathing and eating. That is a hard pill to swallow upon diagnosis. Your loved one will understandably require a lot of emotional support to come to terms with their diagnosis and cope with all of the lifestyle changes and adaptations this disease brings. Expect a wide range of emotions between shock, denial, anger, sorrow, and frustration. Take some time to read the common emotions and stages of grief. Do not let the diagnosis become a fear of the unknown. Educate yourself and your loved one on Parkinson’s disease, what to expect, and what type of actions you can take to make life easier and more enjoyable. Learning about the condition will do nothing but help you prepare for the road ahead. Encourage them to seek therapy or join a local or virtual support group to help them process their emotions and develop coping skills. Your assistance and care are greatly needed, but speaking with others that are suffering from the same disease is a different type of value that you cannot provide. Some aspects of caring for your loved one with PD will be frustrating and exhausting. Try your best to remember to be kind and patient. It goes a long way and they need your support.
Home Safety Considerations for Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease frequently causes mobility issues, so improving the safety and usability of a patient’s home should be a top priority. Wide, clear pathways in rooms and hallways are crucial because people with PD frequently use mobility aids like canes, walkers, rollators, or wheelchairs. The following home elements can make it difficult for a person with limited mobility to get around their home safely.
Home Modifications for Loved Ones with PDFurniture Arrangements Furniture should be spaced apart enough to allow them to have easy access to every room in their home, along with any necessary mobility aids. Placing furniture between 5.5 and 6 feet apart can help accommodate this. Make sure any furniture that has wheels can be stabilized to prevent falling when the piece is being used to keep the individual steady.
Lighting Adequate lighting in any home is important, but try to avoid floor lamps or table lamps that can be easily tipped over. This includes both placement and lighting fixture design qualities to consider. Always tuck away electrical cords so they do not pose a tripping and falling hazard.
Floor Coverings Walking on thick carpets can be riskier and more difficult than on thin carpets or bare floors. Parkinson’s disease patients frequently develop a shuffling gait that raises their risk of falling and/or tripping. It is recommended that throw rugs be taken out, but any area and accent rugs that are left should be placed on nonslip mats with the corners taped down or otherwise secured. Use slip-resistant floor wax to clean bare floors.
Kitchen Considerations Traditional cabinet and drawer hardware can be small and challenging to grasp. For PD patients with tremors, weak grips, and restricted dexterity, replacing small knobs with larger handles or pulls can make accessing kitchen storage areas easier. Cookware, dishes, utensils, and pantry supplies should be kept at waist or chest level. This will prevent those with Parkinson’s from having to bend over or reach up high, which will help avoid falls.
Bathroom Modifications Bathrooms are one of the most dangerous rooms in the home when it comes to the risk of slip and falls. Injuries such as sprains, fractures, contusions, and abrasions commonly occur near the bathroom and toilet. Installing grip bars that are securely screwed into the wall studs near toilets, sinks, and bathtubs can help Parkinson’s Disease patients avoid falling and causing any unnecessary injury. Avoid using cheap, removable suction cup grab bars. The price point may seem attractive, but these are not effective at consistently supporting a grown adult’s body weight and will do very little if the PD patient begins falling. Stepless, walk-in showers, and walk-in tubs are ideal for loved ones with PD due to their movement limitations and gait. A shower chair or transfer bench also greatly diminishes the chance of a fall. You can also use non-skid mats inside of the bathtub and around the sink area to provide additional traction on typically slippery bathroom floors.
What to Avoid as a Caregiver of Parkinson’s DiseaseWhen caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s Disease at home, do your best to avoid the following:
Get Professional In-Home Parkinson’s Disease Care ServicesWe understand that it is a lot of work, time, and dedication to properly care for a loved one suffering from Parkinson’s Disease. It can feel like a weakness to recruit outside assistance, but there is no shame in asking for help. In fact, opting for a full-time nurse may be the best thing you can do for your loved one. A licensed, professional nurse, rather than a typical caregiver or home health aid, will provide exemplary care, understand the ins and outs of Parkinson’s Disease, and be able to provide daily assessments and report back to the PD patient’s main physician. Not to mention keeping to a strict medication regimen, care for potential injuries, and the emotional support that is required. NurseRegistry takes the time to handpick an empathetic, caring nurse that is perfect for your loved one’s needs. Beyond professional qualifications, we always consider age, gender, and personality. You don’t have to face all of the home Parkinson’s caretaker responsibility alone. Instead, choose peace of mind for both you and your loved one by hiring a private duty nurse from NurseRegistry. Click below to begin the process of being matched with the perfect nurse today. Disclaimer: This article does not constitute medical advice. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms, please contact your primary care physician for professional medical advice. The post Caring for a Parkinson’s Patient at Home appeared first on NurseRegistry.The post Caring for a Parkinson’s Patient at Home appeared first on NurseRegistry. |
AuthorNurse Registry Palo Alto Archives
April 2023
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