Nursing – Private nursing care is available in a variety of care settings such as hospital, long-term care, retirement home, assisted living residence, and in a client’s home. A registered staff person is required when a client requires treatment, which is not within the scope of practice of a support worker. Registered nursing staff generally oversee care attendants, do assessments when there is a change in medical condition, and administer medications and treatments.
Support Workers, Caregivers – Theses days, many baby boomers find themselves caught in the middle of caring for aging or ill parents, supporting their children and careers. (This is often referred to as “the sandwich generation.”) Having someone oversee the care and well-being of their parents is often a welcome relief. Home support can involve everything from assisting with the activities of daily living to activation to attending medical appointments to end of life care.
Care Attendants – An auto accident, stroke, sports injury or anoxia can cause serious brain and physical limitations. Attendants are specifically trained to care for clients who are quadriplegic or hemiplegic and are also trained in the area of brain injury rehab.
Dementia Care – Support workers who work with Alzheimer clients require specialized training for dealing with this type of client. Many home care agencies work with the Alzheimer Society to ensure that their support workers are trained to provide optimal care for Alzheimer and dementia clients.
Palliative Care – Whether it’s in a hospital, nursing home, retirement home or one’s home, clients can remain where they are most comfortable at end of life. Nurses and support workers are there to support the client and family, whether it be physical needs, pain relief, emotional or spiritual care. They can be reassured they are not alone at this difficult time.
Nursing and home care companies vary in the types of services they deliver. It’s important that health employees are well-trained professionals, insured and have experience in the area of care that is required. The care they provide can ease the burden today and tomorrow.
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Yvonne Griggs is CEO of Alert Best Nursing & Senior Home Care – a leading provider of staff for private-duty nursing hospitals, long-term care facilities and retirement homes. For more information on their services, call 905.524.5990, email info@abnursing.ca or go to www.abnursing.ca.
Supporting Burlington, Hamilton, Ancaster, Stoney Creek, Dundas Brantford and Oakville.