Common Myths About the Role of Your Nurse

Adjusting to a new caregiver in your home comes with many questions and misconceptions. Understanding the facts about what your pediatric nurse can and cannot do will help set clear expectations and foster a smoother transition. Here are some common myths and the realities behind them:

Myth: My child will have a nurse with him 24/7.

Fact: The number of nursing hours provided is determined by your child’s needs and the authorization from your insurance company or managed care organization (MCO). Typically, this doesn’t include 24/7 care. The care schedule often takes into account the availability of other household members who can assist.

Myth: Parents can change their scheduled shift nursing hours whenever they choose.

Fact: Changes to scheduled nursing hours require a physician’s order and authorization from the insurance provider. Nurses cannot adjust their shifts without approval from the home health agency and the insurer.

Myth: If I need to run errands, the nurse can care for all of my children.

Fact: Home health nurses are legally restricted from caring for other children in the home. They can only provide care to the patient specified in their shift nursing agreement.

Myth: The nurse can clean up the house for us.

Fact: Nurses are responsible for providing medical care to the patient and cannot perform household chores. While they may handle incidental cleaning related to the patient’s care, general housekeeping tasks are outside their scope of work.

Myth: My family should avoid speaking to the nurse while they’re on duty in the home.

Fact: Communication with the nurse is encouraged. While the nurse’s primary focus is your child’s health and safety, building a rapport with the entire family can be beneficial. Nurses are accustomed to becoming part of the family routine and appreciate open, respectful communication.

Myth: If I don’t like the nurse the agency sends, it can send more until I find someone I like.

Fact: While agencies strive to match families with suitable nurses, the current shortage of healthcare professionals can limit options. Agencies and MCOs will try to accommodate preferences, but immediate changes may not always be feasible. It’s best to discuss any concerns with the agency as soon as possible.

It’s the Law: State and Federal Restrictions on a Nurse’s Work

There are specific legal limitations on what home health nurses can and cannot do:

• Communication: Agencies cannot use standard text messages to communicate about your child’s care due to HIPAA privacy laws. Some may offer HIPAA-compliant messaging services or online portals.
• Physical Restraint: Nurses cannot physically restrain your child. They will work with you to find appropriate interventions for behavioral issues.
• Footwear: Nurses cannot completely remove their shoes while working but can use indoor-only shoes or shoe covers if preferred.
• Care for Siblings: Nurses cannot provide care to other siblings but can interact with them during their shift.
• Care Plan Changes: Nurses cannot alter your child’s care plan or medication without a doctor’s approval and have limited flexibility in adjusting their visit schedule without insurer approval.

Home Health Aide Services vs. Nursing Care

In addition to nursing care, your child might receive services from a home health aide. Unlike licensed nurses, aides assist with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, and mobility. They often provide extended hours of support and can offer socialization and companionship when nursing care is not required. Home health aide services can complement nursing care and help your child become more independent.

Understanding these realities can help you and your family adjust more smoothly to the new care arrangements and make the most out of the support provided by your home health team.