Though hospitalization is often necessary to treat serious illnesses, more and more people are choosing to receive healthcare in the comfort of their homes.
Home healthcare has many advantages, including shorter recovery times, lower costs, and more personalized care. However, home healthcare providers should also consider several considerations when giving the support their patients need.
Environment
One crucial factor to consider is the patient’s environment. Proper assessment of the home for potential safety hazards should occur, and there should be necessary safety modifications.
In addition, the home healthcare team should work closely with the family to ensure that they can provide the necessary care and support that the patient needs. In case of a crisis, the team should also have a backup plan.
The home environment should be comfortable enough for the patient to rest and recuperate. The team should also consider any special needs the patient may have, such as assistance with bathing or dressing.
If the environment is not suitable for home healthcare, the team may need to consider alternate arrangements.
Supports
Home healthcare requires a lot of teamwork between the patient, family, and healthcare providers. The team should be able to provide the necessary support to help the patient recover.
It includes providing emotional support, preparing meals and snacks, providing medication reminders, and assisting with activities of daily living. The team should also be able to communicate with the patient’s doctor and other healthcare providers to ensure that the patient is getting the best care possible.
If no one in the family can provide the necessary support, the home healthcare team may need to provide it. In some cases where the patient requires more care than the family can provide, the team may need to consider institutionalizing the patient.
Financials
One of the main advantages of home healthcare is that it is often less expensive than hospitalization. However, there are some costs that families should be aware of.
Home healthcare providers should discuss all associated costs with the family before providing services. These costs may include equipment rental, transportation costs, and medication costs.
Nonetheless, families should also be aware that they may still be responsible for some medical bills even if the patient is receiving home healthcare.
Recovery Routine
The patient’s recovery routine is crucial when providing home healthcare. The team should work with the patient to create a personalized plan that includes exercises, diet, and medication schedules.
A typical recovery routine involves the following:
Going for walks
Patients need to get some sun and fresh air, so going for walks is a great way to start the day. The team should work with the patient to create a safe walking routine that includes gradual increases in time and distance.
If the patient can go outside, the team should help the patient improve the backyard, allowing for more accessible walking and less strain on the body. It may include installing a ramp, adding railings, or leveling the ground.
Some shades will also be necessary. You can contact your nearest local awning provider to install a retractable awning. Doing so will help keep the sun and rain off while the patient spends their time outside.
Eating healthy
Patients need to eat healthy foods while they are recovering. The team should work with the patient to create a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
The care provider should know which foods to avoid, such as those high in fat or sugar. They should also be aware of any dietary restrictions the patient may have.
In some cases, the team may need to prepare special meals for the patient. It can be a significant challenge if no one in the family can cook. In this case, the care provider may need to hire a cook or nutritionist to help with meal planning.
Taking medications
Patients need to take their medications as prescribed by the doctor. The team should work with the patient to create a medication schedule and ensure that all medications are handled correctly.
If there are any concerns about taking medications, the team should discuss them with the patient’s doctor.
Remote Monitoring
Remote monitoring is a great way to keep track of the patient’s health status. The team can use remote monitoring to track the patient’s heart rate, blood pressure, and other health metrics. This information can help the team detect potential problems early and provide necessary intervention.
Remote monitoring is also helpful for tracking the patient’s progress over time. This way, the team can adjust the patient’s care plan as needed.
Home healthcare is an excellent option for patients recovering from surgery, illness, or injury. The family should work with the healthcare team to ensure their home is well-suited for the patient’s needs. These include the environment, care provider, financial needs, and remote monitoring. The family should also be aware of home healthcare’s associated routines, which include walking, eating healthy, and taking medications.
In keeping with the patient’s personalized care plan, the recovery will go more smoothly, and the patient will be on their way to a full recovery.
