What does a Home Care Nurse do?
A Home Care Nurse manages a patient’s at-home care plan. They assist patients who are unable to care for themselves or whose family members are unavailable. Patients may include individuals who have been released from a medical facility following an injury, those with a disability, terminal illnesses or chronic sickness. They work with Physicians and other healthcare professionals to provide care and ensure the well-being of the patient. They assess the patient’s condition daily, check their vitals, administer medication in a timely manner and provide progress reports to Physicians and family members.
Home Care Nurse skills and qualifications
A Home Care Nurse needs a combination of nursing skills, communication skills and people skills. A successful Home Care Nurse candidate will have various prerequisite skills and qualifications that typically include:
- Understanding of the principles of nursing
- Compassion and empathy skills
- Ability to think critically and solve problems
- Physical stamina and strength
- Excellent attention to detail
- Time management skills
- Organisation skills
Home Care Nurse experience requirements
A Home Care Nurse must have at least one to two years of experience in a similar role. For mid-level roles, three to five years of experience is required. For senior roles, which involve managing a team of other Home Care Nurses, over five years of experience will typically be required.
Prior experience in creating a home healthcare plan, treating and preventing bedsores, managing healthcare records and working in a residential setting will be useful. Volunteer experience may be accepted, in some cases. Other experience requirements will vary based on the specific role.
Home Care Nurse education and training requirements
A Home Care Nurse usually requires a degree in nursing, life sciences, anatomy or a related field. A Level 3 Diploma in Health, Science or Nursing may be required to obtain a degree. Other possible requirements include a degree apprenticeship in a healthcare setting such as a hospital or hospice.
Home Care Nurses must also be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council. Possible training requirements include statutory and mandatory UK core skills in patient moving and handling, safeguarding adults and children and infection prevention and control.
Home Care Nurse salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, a Home Care Nurse in the UK can expect to earn an average salary of £16.19 per hour. Their salary will vary based on their level of experience, education, geographical location and employer.
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