Transitioning from Working in Facility Care to Home Care
Transitioning from working in a facility to home care requires a significant shift in mindset, skills, and perspective. While most caregivers in facility care are equipped to manage different caregiving scenarios, the challenges that come with home care are unique.
Here are the essential things professional caregivers and home care providers need to consider when transitioning from facility care to home care.
The Importance of Adjusting to a New Environment
Working in home care means transitioning from a structured environment to one where you have little control over your surroundings. Therefore, caregivers must learn to work around their client's needs and preferences. For example, if the home has areas that are difficult to access, caregivers may need to find ways to maneuver around obstacles safely. Or, if there are certain things in the home you are unfamiliar with, be sure to ask questions and get familiar with the environment.
Each home you visit will be different, so take the time to get acquainted with the client's home and personalize your approach.
Gaining an Understanding of the Client's Specific Needs
When transitioning from facility to home care, you will work with clients more intimately. Therefore, you must work to understand their specific needs and provide tailored care accordingly. Before beginning any new assignment, read through the client's care plan, get familiar with their medical history, and learn about any dietary or mobility restrictions. In addition, you will need to gain a better understanding of the client's social and emotional needs.
Compared to working at a facility, this type of intimate care requires extra attentiveness and understanding, as you're the only person your client has to rely on.
Preparing for Caregiving Alone
Caregivers that offer in-home care often do not work in teams. They might be on call 24/7, which can feel overwhelming at times. When transitioning to home care, it is important to understand the protocol if you get stuck or unsure about something. Caregivers must be independent, conscientious, and able to make clear-headed decisions during emergencies.
Furthermore, being independent means keeping thorough records and documenting your caregiving experience. Stay organized with paperwork, medications, and any other essential documents and details.
Continuous Learning and Development
Transitioning from facility care to home care requires home care providers to invest in their personal development to meet the specialized needs of their clients. Home care is not one-size-fits-all, and each case is unique. Caregivers must stay proactive about developing new skills, problem-solving, and staying up-to-date with changing best practices.
Remaining informed about medical conditions, medications, and new trends in home care can lead to higher caregiver performance and improved care.
Final Thoughts
Being flexible and resourceful, staying informed of client needs, and building positive relationships with clients and their families is crucial as a home care provider. Caregivers can make this transition successfully and provide exceptional client care if they plan ahead, ask questions, and remain open to learning.
In the end, transitioning from facility care to home care can be an extremely gratifying experience that allows you to have a more hands-on approach. It also offers caregivers the opportunity to build strong relationships with their clients and make a positive impact on their lives.
At Visiting Angels Loveland, CO, our home care providers assist our clients with the highest level of care. If you want to join the Visiting Angels team, apply online today or call 970-292-5668.