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At-Home Pediatric Skilled Nurses: 3 Questions Every Parent Should Ask

March 31, 2023
For any parent, hiring an at-home pediatric skilled nurse can be a challenge. Finding someone who is qualified and experienced is essential, but finding someone who will be a good fit for your family is equally important. Here are three questions that every parent should ask when hiring a pediatric skilled nurse to come to their home, to help them make the best decision possible.


What is an At-Home Pediatric Skilled Nurse?

Registered nurses or licensed practical nurses who provide skilled nursing care to children at home are known as at-home pediatric skilled nurses. Additionally, a pediatric skilled nurse can care for a child who is recovering from an illness or injury, has special needs, or is terminally ill as well as children who are recovering from an illness or injury. As a member of the child's healthcare team, the at-home pediatric skilled nurse works under the direction of a physician and may also have the opportunity to collaborate with other members of the healthcare team.

It is also important to note that the tasks vary depending on the patient's needs. There are some patients who require only a few hours of care every day, while there are others who require assistance throughout the day. 


At-Home Pediatric Skilled Nurses Benefits: What Are They? 

When it comes to providing quality pediatric care for their children, parents should consider hiring an at-home pediatric skilled nurse. A skilled nurse can provide invaluable support to a child and his or her family. The following are some of the benefits of hiring a skilled nurse: 
  1. Enhances the child's quality of life - In order to improve the quality of life of the child, a skilled nurse can provide round-the-clock care and support to them. This can improve the quality of life of the child. Additionally, home care allows the child to recover in a comfortable environment since they are already accustomed to the familiar settings of their home and can recover in a comfortable environment. It is therefore believed that home care encourages a speedy recovery as well as reduces the need for hospital visits as a result. It is also beneficial for children with chronic conditions to have a skilled nurse at home, as they find it beneficial to recover in a comfortable environment when they are dealing with their chronic condition. 
  2. It reduces stress for the parents - It is easier for parents to relax if their child is taken care of by a skilled nurse since they will be able to trust this person to care for their child. Pediatric Skilled Nurses ensure families are well prepared for unexpected events and emergencies. Providing at-home care in this way creates a healthy environment for everyone involved, enabling the child to recover and grow.  Educating parents on how to care for their children should there be any sudden changes in circumstances is another benefit of home care. Parents who are well-prepared understand their child's needs and also establish their role in caring for their child during recovery. 
  3. Personalized treatment plans for your child - Treatment plans can be best implemented at home when the patient is comfortable. Pediatric nurses can assess the child's home and environment and adjust treatment plans accordingly. Customizing your child's treatment plan is an excellent way to determine the child's needs and what approach will be most beneficial to them. 


The Three Questions to Ask When Hiring a Pediatric Nurse

What are the nurse's qualifications? 

When hiring a pediatric skilled nurse, qualification is crucial, especially if the nurse is going to work at home. Your child needs to be cared for by a nurse with the proper training and experience. Find out if they have experience caring for children with special needs and in home health care. Ask them about their insurance and licensing as well. If you check the nurse's qualifications, you can rest assured that your child is in good hands.
You should also make sure you hire a nurse who is properly licensed and insured before you hire her. Furthermore, you will want to ask whether they have worked with children of all ages in the past. It is through this process that you will be able to determine if the nurse's history and experience align with your child's needs during the recovery process. It is also worthwhile to focus on their credentials to be able to determine whether they are the right person for your child's treatment and if they can understand their condition in enough detail in order to formulate the right treatment plan for them. 


Are the nurse's hours of availability flexible? 

In order to find the right at-home pediatric nurse for your child, you need to make sure their schedule is compatible with yours. When it comes to recovery and proper intervention, this approach helps organize and prepare a schedule for your child's needs. 
If you hire a nurse, make sure she or he is available when you need them. You will want to make sure the nurse you hire can work those hours if your child requires round-the-clock care.


Does the nurse's communication skills meet your expectations?

When it comes to at-home pediatric nursing, good communication skills, rapport, and chemistry are essential. It is vital to hire a pediatric nurse with excellent communication skills, especially since they will be at your home regularly. More importantly, what kind of relationship does the nurse have with your child? Before committing, it is important to consider these factors. 
The overall approach they take to pediatric care is another factor to consider. Do they use methods that are compatible with the intervention your child needs? What is your child's level of participation during these sessions? A long-lasting relationship with a pediatric nurse at home can be created by considering multiple approaches that are suitable for both parents and children. You can make your child's recovery more beneficial for the whole family when you pay attention to these factors. 


Contact BrightStar Care of Fairfax Today

BrightStar Care of Fairfax provides a team of professionals ready to care for you and your loved ones. We understand the challenges faced by caregivers and are committed to providing compassionate care that meets the needs of those we serve. If you would like more information about our services, please visit our website or call us today at  703-995-7333. 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.

 Come visit us at 10515 Braddock Rd Suite C Fairfax, VA 22032. Hopefully, we’ll hear from you soon!