Questions to ask when looking for home nursing

Getting the right care for a loved one is essential. Whether you are looking for respite, cancer or palliative care, there are many important questions to consider. Finding suitable care can be a stressful experience for both you and your family, and it can be difficult to keep track of everything you need to know.

To make this process easier, we have compiled a helpful list of questions to ask when exploring home nursing services. Discover more about our home nursing agency and how we provide compassionate, personalised care for our clients.

These questions are designed to help you feel prepared and confident, ensuring your loved one receives the best possible care.

Understanding your loved one’s needs

Everyone has their own unique needs, which makes it important to be clear about exactly what they require from a care provider. Providing specific details about medications and your relative’s preferences will help ensure they receive the most appropriate support.

• What medical conditions or ongoing treatments do they have?
• Do they need assistance with mobility, continence, or medication?
• Are there specific cultural, religious, or dietary needs to consider?
• Do they rely on mobility aids or specialist equipment?

Having this information helps ensure the care you choose is tailored, comprehensive, and truly meets your loved one’s needs.

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Ensuring the right match

Everyone has a right to expect high standards in care for their loved ones. Your care services should not only help to keep them safe and well but also treat them with dignity and respect. Good quality care staff will treat your relative as an individual and listen to your wishes. Asking questions about staff training and procedures will help.

• How do they match carers or nurses to your loved one’s needs?
• What qualifications and training do their carers have, and are they DBS checked?
• Will a consistent caregiver be assigned, or will multiple staff rotate?
• How do they demonstrate empathy, patience, adaptability, and good communication?

Exploring homecare options

Home nursing is just one type of homecare. Understanding the options available can help you choose the right service. Options include:

Nursing care: One-to-one clinical support for complex needs such as catheter management, tracheostomies, or PEG feeding.

Companion care: Focused on social interaction and daily assistance.

Live-in care: 24/7 support for those who need constant supervision.

Specialist nursing: For conditions like dementia, Parkinson’s, stroke, diabetes, or motor neurone disease.

Palliative or respite care: For end-of-life support or temporary relief for families.

Understanding these options helps you select the right blend of clinical and personal support.

Safety and reliability

Safety and reliability should be a priority. Key questions include:

• How will carers access the home securely if your loved one cannot answer the door?
• What emergency protocols are in place?
• How does the agency handle staff illness, holidays, or weather disruptions?
• Will written care records and timesheets be provided for transparency?

Clear communication and continuity of care are essential for peace of mind.

Understanding the role of the nurse vs. carer

It’s important to understand the difference between a nurse and a carer:

Nurses bring clinical expertise, monitor health trends, make decisions about urgent interventions, and reduce the need for hospital admissions.

Carers focus on personal care, companionship, daily living assistance, and emotional support.

Often, a blend of both roles provides the most comprehensive support.

Planning and family involvement

Care should be collaborative. Ask if a personalised care plan will be developed that includes medical needs, personal preferences, and required equipment. Also, find out if family members can be actively involved in the care process. A good carer or nurse should be both a provider and a companion, creating a partnership with the family.

How can Cavendish Homecare help?

At Cavendish Homecare, we are experts in providing private nursing care services for clients who want to remain in their own homes. When it comes to your health and wellbeing, choosing the right homecare package is of utmost importance and navigating this process can be overwhelming. With Cavendish Homecare by your side, you’ll have the support you need to remain safely at home while enjoying elevated health and wellbeing.

If you would like to enquire about our homecare services, contact us on 020 3008 5210 or email us at info@cavendishhomecare.com.

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