I an a new RN and have been offered a position for a HHA. The cases I have been asked to do seem like they should only go to an experienced RN( lots of teaching). I know I can turn them down, but again new grads are desperate for experience. I feel like the agency should know what cases to give me and what not to. Should something go wrong is it on them or my license or both?
My first assignment in HHA was to check on a "Superficial bed sore" reported by the family. I walked into the house and could smell it from the front room. When I peeled back the diaper I found an Ulcer deep enough to put my fist into. Mind the only ulcer I had dressed was the one on the dummy in RN school. I ended up packing it with a sanitary napkin soaked in saline and then got her an appointment at the wound clinic. The doctor thought I was very creative and sent me up to attend free training. Today I love wounds - The challange that is. Always protect you license - don't do any procedure you have not been trained to do and ask for all the trainging you can get. Also if doing home health I suggest you carry extra mal-practice insurance - I've had my policy since school and it covers me for up to a million dollors for about $80.00 a quarter. Well worth it.
Hppy