A position as a home health aide is a rewarding career path in which you provide valuable support and assistance to aging, sick, or disabled individuals. Like any other job in the health care field, home health aides must have specific training and expertise to meet the different needs of a diverse range of patients. To shed more light on this career option, below are answers to common questions about working as an aide.

Common Questions About Home Health Aides

What does the job entail?

The main responsibility of a health aide is to assist the patient with daily tasks. This often includes helping with personal care, such as bathing, eating, and using the restroom and running errands for or with the patient. These professionals can also perform light housekeeping duties and tend to basic health needs, such as ensuring the patient takes prescribed medications and monitoring the patient's overall health.

What qualifications and training do I need?

First, you should have a desire to help people and to work with the elderly or patients with limited mobility. You should also be comfortable assisting with personal duties. Training and certification programs can typically be completed within weeks and will include a mixture of classroom instruction and clinical evaluation. You will have the information and tools to successfully start your new career after completing the courses and training. 

Where does a home health aide work?

Many aides work in the private homes of their patients. They are employed by agencies who match patients with caregivers, and while they may work independently, aides have supervisors and colleagues they can consult. Some aides work in nursing, assisted living, hospice facilities or transitional homes, like rehabilitation centers.

What does a typical work day involve?

A normal workday can vary depending on the setting in which you work. Most health aides in private homes will see a few patients in a day, spending a couple of hours with each. In long-term care facilities, the aide may see many patients and check in with them multiple times throughout a shift.

If you're looking for a fulfilling career that allows you to provide crucial help to those who need it, a home health aide is a smart path to pursue. IGBANS Institute of Vocational Training offers home health aide and nursing assistant training to residents in Queens and Brooklyn. They also provide phlebotomy and EKG technician certification. Call (718) 276-8100 or visit their website to enroll in classes today.