1. Roles and Responsibilities

• Assessment and Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation) and overall health status.
• Medication Administration: Accurate administration of prescribed medications, including intravenous drugs, pain management, and daily medications.
• Wound Care: Management of any wounds or surgical sites, including cleaning, dressing changes, and monitoring for infection.
• Ventilator Management: For patients requiring mechanical ventilation, nurses manage ventilator settings, troubleshoot issues, and ensure proper respiratory care.
• Nutrition and Hydration: Administration of enteral (tube feeding) or parenteral (IV nutrition) feeding if the patient cannot eat by mouth.
• Documentation: Keeping detailed records of patient’s health status, treatments, medications, and any changes in condition.

2. Specialized Skills

• Critical Care Skills: Proficiency in managing life-threatening conditions, operating complex medical equipment, and performing emergency procedures.
• Palliative Care: Providing compassionate care focused on relief from the symptoms and stress of serious illness, including end-of-life care if necessary.
• Communication: Effective communication with patients, families, and the broader healthcare team to ensure coordinated care.

3. Training and Certification

• Registered Nurse (RN): A nurse with a nursing degree and state licensure, often with additional certification in critical care or home health care.
• Continuous Education: Regular training updates and certifications in advanced life support, ventilator management, and other ICU-related skills.

Attendant Services

1. Roles and Responsibilities

• Basic Care: Assisting with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting.
• Mobility Assistance: Helping the patient move within the home, including transfers from bed to wheelchair, and preventing falls.
• Meal Preparation: Preparing and serving meals, ensuring nutritional needs are met according to the care plan.
• Housekeeping: Light housekeeping duties to maintain a clean and safe environment for the patient.
• Companionship: Providing emotional support and companionship to enhance the patient's quality of life.

2. Specialized Skills

• Basic Medical Training: Training in basic first aid, CPR, and the use of medical equipment like oxygen concentrators.
• Infection Control: Knowledge of hygiene practices to prevent infections, including proper handwashing and handling of medical supplies.
• Emergency Response: Ability to recognize signs of medical emergencies and respond appropriately until professional help arrives.

3. Training and Certification

• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA): An attendant with formal training and certification in providing basic nursing care under the supervision of an RN.
• Home Health Aide (HHA): Certification specific to providing in-home care, focusing on both health and personal care needs.

Integration and Coordination

• Team Approach: Nurses and attendants work closely together, with nurses often delegating specific tasks to attendants and providing oversight.
• Care Plans: Development of detailed care plans by healthcare professionals that outline the responsibilities of nurses and attendants, ensuring cohesive and comprehensive care.
• Family Education: Training and educating family members to participate in care, recognizing symptoms, and understanding the patient's needs.

Technology and Support

• Telehealth: Utilizing telehealth services for virtual consultations with physicians and specialists, enabling timely adjustments to care plans.
• Remote Monitoring: Implementing remote monitoring tools to continuously track vital signs and other health indicators, alerting nurses to any changes in the patient's condition.
• Support Services: Access to support services such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and social services to address the holistic needs of the patient.