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Medicine LibreTexts

Preface

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    67780

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    Home health services are those which are provided within the comforts of the home setting to help people avoid hospitalization or skilled nursing facility placement, while they recover from illness, injury, or disability. Home health care may also be provided to people who suffer from chronic illnesses, those who have cognitive or physical disabilities or those who have been diagnosed with a terminal illness. This text provides the background necessary to begin working toward a career in the home care field as either a Home Health Aide or Personal Care Aide, which are two of the fastest growing occupations. This text is also suitable for those who are providing care to loved ones and who would like additional information to best provide that care, or for use within Home Health Aide and Personal Care Aide programs.

    Consisting of 12 chapters, this text takes you from gaining an understanding of what home care is and the tasks involved, through better understanding the physical and psychological needs of people, along with the influence of culture on behaviors, values, and healthcare practices. This text provides an in-depth exploration of the physical and psychological changes which occur throughout the lifespan, with a special emphasis on understanding the unique needs of children, the elderly, and those with mental health issues, and developmental and physical disabilities. Chapters dedicated to the basics of nutrition, budgeting, and first aid provision are included. Specific methods for providing personal and homecare, along with videos to demonstrate tasks complete this text.