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Can Nursing Students Provide At-Home Care?
Date Updated: December 9, 2024
Written by:
Tiffany Amber Stockton, an award-winning author and speaker, excels in crafting narratives on senior healthcare, with an expertise in memory care after helping her grandfather live with dementia. With twenty-six published books to her credit, she uniquely blends literary prowess with a compassionate understanding of the challenges faced by older adults. Follow her on LinkedIn for updates on her distinguished writing career in the realm of professional copywriting and copyediting.
Reviewed by:
Dr. Brindusa Vanta is a health care professional, researcher, and an experienced medical writer (2000+ articles published online and several medical ebooks). She received her MD degree from “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine, Romania, and her HD diploma from OCHM – Toronto, Canada.
Nursing students can provide at-home care, but the specific requirements of the care setting determine the type of care they offer. While nursing students typically gain clinical experience in health care facilities, their involvement in at-home care varies. Some provide only nonmedical assistance, such as companionship or assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), while others offer medical services under expert supervision.
Medical Home Care from Nursing Students
Nursing students receive training to provide medical care under the supervision of licensed professionals in health care facilities. Their involvement in medical at-home care also requires supervision by a licensed health care professional, following established guidelines. Without a nursing license, students don't perform medical procedures or make independent decisions about an individual's medical care.
Nursing trainees gain practical clinical skills and educate family members about medical care in the absence of a healthcare professional. These trainees know they must maintain clear communication and a commitment to patient safety when providing services. They seek guidance as needed and escalate concerns to ensure the best possible outcomes for individuals receiving medical care at home.
Nursing Students and Nonmedical Home Care
Nursing students, even those without prior experience as caregivers, receive specialized training and supervision to engage effectively in nonmedical care. This training ensures they are well-prepared to support individuals in their homes with activities of daily living. By working within their field of study, nursing students gain valuable hands-on experience, playing a crucial role in assisting those who need everyday care.
Nursing students contribute significantly to nonmedical services by offering companionship, medication reminders, meal preparation, assistance with mobility exercises and emotional support and advocacy. Their training in nursing care equips them to understand the physical, emotional and social needs of individuals receiving care at home.