Any Home care nurses out there?

Question

I am interested in persuing a home care job. Can anyone tell me what you love about your job, what are the drawbacks, expense involved, car insurance etc?

Answer 1

Do you mean as a caregiver or as an RN?
It is a different type of work...you are in someone's home and it is hard not to get attached (or detached if it is not a good fit). so it is alot more personal, which makes it more rewarding but also harder.
Paperwork is still a problem even in homecare (thanks Uncle Sam and insurance megacorps).
You will likely have to use your own vehicle; you can be reimbursed for the mileage, but only at the rate the agency will pay or what Uncle Sam sets for taxes (usually the same). No-one will pay you for what it really costs in wear & tear on your car or for the high $$ of gas these days. No one covers your car insurance, and the rates may go up if you tell your insurance company you are working from your car.
If you are working for an agency that expects you to see numerous patients in one day, you will do lots of driving-LOTS!-- sometimes in areas you aren't familiar with. I had five times the number of tickets and accidents when doing home care. Rear ended twice and backed into once by a semi--in neither was I moving. In none of the above did the agency back me up.
Even if you are doing a shift with one patient, remember you, and usually you alone, are responsible for moving that patient, and all that entails. Sometimes housekeeping things as well. And you can't turn around and ask another nurse her opinion either. Or go to the storage room to get supplies.

I'm not saying don't do it. I'm just saying it, like hospital nursing, also has drawbacks. The pay can be less as well. But I met some wonderful people whom I will never forget.