Visiting Nurses

Dear Linda:

       My sweet granny is disabled and can't leave her home. I've taken care of her for several years, but her physical problems now require professional nursing. What are my options?
Devoted Granddaughter

Dear Devoted Granddaughter:

       Historically, younger generations considered it an honor and responsibility to care for the elders in their family. This is no longer customary and the increasing number of people left alone in nursing homes is sad evidence. It's wonderful to hear about a grandchild with your level of devotion.

       You have many options for securing visiting nurses--Home Health and Staffing/Private Duty agencies, Hospice, Pharmaceutical and Infusion Therapy Companies and Registries.

       Home Health (yellow pages under that heading) agencies are regulated, supervised, and deliver a variety of services. For cases requiring more than one specialist, a caregiving team visits. These agencies investigate and supervise personnel, and assume all liability. Visit www.medicare.gov for information specific to your area.

       Hospice also offers a team approach-skilled professionals and trained volunteers providing medical, psychological and spiritual care for patients diagnosed as not-thriving or terminally-ill. Call the National Hospice Organization at 800-658-8898.

       Pharmaceutical and Infusion Therapy companies deliver drugs, equipment and professional services to patients receiving intravenous or nutritional therapies through tubes. Pharmacists with these companies prepare solutions and arrange delivery to patients. Nurses teach patients self-administration.

       The Visiting Nurse Association of America (VNAA) offers skilled care to every age group with specialties including psychiatric, palliative, wound, continence, and hospice. Visit www.vnaa.org for local chapters.

       Staffing and Private-duty agencies provide clients with nursing, homemaking and companion services. Most states don't require licensing, so ask for references and check the Better Business Bureau.

       Registries (yellow pages under nurses) serve as employment agencies matching nurses with clients for a fee. Not licensed or regulated, Registries aren't required to do background checks. Clients select provider, supervise work, and comply with regulations regarding payroll tax and social security withholding.

       Contact the National Association of Home Care at 202-547-7424 or visit www.nahc.org for additional information.