Overview
Job Summary – In-Home Caregiver (Home Health) The In-Home Caregiver provides compassionate, non-medical support and personal care to patients in their homes under the direction of a registered nurse and in accordance with the patient’s individualized care plan. Responsibilities include assisting with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming, mobility, meal preparation, light housekeeping, and companionship. The caregiver observes and reports changes in the patient’s condition or environment to the supervising nurse or case manager to ensure continuity of care and patient safety. This role requires professionalism, empathy, strong communication skills, and a genuine commitment to improving the quality of life for patients receiving home health services.
Responsibilities
- Personal Care Assistance
- Help patients with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and oral hygiene.
- Assist with mobility, including transferring, walking, and repositioning in bed or a wheelchair.
- Medication & Health Monitoring Support
- Remind patients to take prescribed medications as directed by healthcare providers.
- Observe and report any changes in the patient’s physical, mental, or emotional condition to the supervising nurse or case manager.
- Meal Preparation & Nutrition
- Prepare and serve meals according to the patient’s dietary requirements.
- Assist with feeding if needed and ensure adequate hydration.
- Household & Environmental Support
- Perform light housekeeping tasks such as laundry, dishwashing, vacuuming, and maintaining a safe living environment.
- Assist with shopping for groceries or household supplies as needed.
- Companionship & Emotional Support
- Provide social interaction, encouragement, and companionship to reduce feelings of isolation.
- Engage patients in activities that promote mental and emotional well-being.
- Care Documentation & Communication
- Maintain accurate records of care provided and report daily activities, incidents, or concerns to the supervising nurse or care manager.
- Communicate effectively with patients, family members, and the healthcare team.
- Safety & Emergency Response
- Ensure patient safety at all times and follow protocols to prevent falls or injuries.
- Respond appropriately in case of emergencies and notify healthcare professionals or emergency services as needed.
- Professional Development & Compliance
- Follow all home health policies, procedures, and regulatory guidelines.
- Participate in ongoing training and development to maintain skills and knowledge.
Qualifications
- Education & Certification
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Certification as a Home Health Aide (HHA) or Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) preferred.
- CPR and First Aid certification required or willing to obtain.
- Experience
- Previous experience providing personal care, companionship, or home health support preferred.
- Experience working with elderly, disabled, or chronically ill patients is highly desirable.
- Skills & Competencies
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills to interact effectively with patients, families, and healthcare teams.
- Ability to follow care plans and instructions accurately.
- Compassionate, patient, and empathetic demeanor.
- Basic understanding of nutrition, hygiene, and safety practices.
- Ability to document care accurately and report observations professionally.
- Physical & Practical Requirements
- Ability to lift, move, or assist patients safely as required.
- Ability to perform household tasks, meal preparation, and errands.
- Reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license are required if travel to patient homes is required.
- Compliance & Professionalism
- Adherence to HIPAA regulations and patient confidentiality.
- Commitment to ongoing professional development and training.
- Dependable, punctual, and capable of working independently.
Compensation
$12 - $15 hourly