Private-duty nurses provide in-home medical care or personal care in institutions. To become one, you need to qualify as a registered nurse with a degree or diploma and pass a national certification test. They perform specialized medical tasks and can work for home care agencies or independently.
A private-duty nurse is a licensed nurse who provides in-home medical care or is contracted to provide personal care for a patient in an institution, such as a hospital or nursing home. To become a private nurse, you first need to qualify as a registered nurse under the laws of your country or region. Education requirements usually include a degree from an approved institution, an associate’s degree, or a bachelor’s degree. Many applicants opt for a bachelor’s degree to gain an edge in the competitive job market. After a degree or diploma is obtained, a national certification test may also be required.
Nursing is a skilled profession that requires specialized training. Many countries recognize and license various levels of nursing practice. Educational requirements range from diploma training programs to advanced postgraduate degrees. The licensing process for nurses may also include passing an exam and a background check.
The private service nurse is distinguished from a home health aide by their professional qualifications and the tasks they are qualified to perform. While a nurse may also provide hygiene assistance and help with feeding, she is more likely to perform specialized medical tasks such as wound care, blood tests and taking vital signs. Some home health aides and licensed practical nurses end up choosing to complete the appropriate requirements and become a private nurse.
If you are a licensed nurse under the laws in your area, you may be able to become a private nurse by approaching local home care agencies and nursing records. Some of these companies may have additional requirements for their nurses, such as previous nursing experience and ongoing continuing education beyond what is needed for license renewal. If you live in a large urban area, there may be a number of agencies and registries to choose from. Interviewing several can increase your chances of finding the job that’s right for you.
Another option is to become a Private Nurse, simply connecting with clients on your own. If it’s legal in your area, you can network with social service agencies, nursing homes and other local organizations to get your name in the hands of people who need your services. A disadvantage of working independently is that you will not have the ready ability to consult with other professionals about patient care. You’ll likely also need to get your own liability insurance, and you may not have a backup ready if you’re out of town, sick, or unable to work.
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