New Rn- Is Home Health Care appropriate? Advice needed ASAP!!!

[rhiroosma00]

I an a new RN and have been offered a position for a HHA. The cases I have been asked to do seem like they should only go to an experienced RN( lots of teaching). I know I can turn them down, but again new grads are desperate for experience. I feel like the agency should know what cases to give me and what not to. Should something go wrong is it on them or my license or both?

[hppygr8ful]

My first assignment in HHA was to check on a "Superficial bed sore" reported by the family. I walked into the house and could smell it from the front room. When I peeled back the diaper I found an Ulcer deep enough to put my fist into. Mind the only ulcer I had dressed was the one on the dummy in RN school. I ended up packing it with a sanitary napkin soaked in saline and then got her an appointment at the wound clinic. The doctor thought I was very creative and sent me up to attend free training. Today I love wounds - The challange that is. Always protect you license - don't do any procedure you have not been trained to do and ask for all the trainging you can get. Also if doing home health I suggest you carry extra mal-practice insurance - I've had my policy since school and it covers me for up to a million dollors for about $80.00 a quarter. Well worth it.

Hppy

[Kdog]

I would not take the Home Health job because you have to be well rounded in medical surgical care. Try to get a hospital job.
Keep in mind what is BEST for the patient and a new grad just does not have the experience.

[cali510]

Welcome to the site.