The Role of the Home Health Aide
Presented by Rachel Madsen
12-Month Subscription
Unlimited access to:
- Thousands of CE Courses
- Patient Education
- Home Exercise Program
- And more
Home health aide openings are expected to increase by 37% in the next four years. Because most home health aide training is very short-term or done on the job, and because many aides begin working independently in the home, it is important for aides to clearly understand their role in caring for their client and how it relates to the roles of others on the home healthcare team. This course helps home health aides better understand their role and the tasks they can perform in the home. It also allows learners to identify which tasks are outside their scope of practice and how they fit into the home healthcare team.
Learning Objectives
- Outline the role of the home health aide
- Identify typical tasks performed by the home health aide
- Define scope of practice and list five tasks that are outside the scope of practice for a home health aide
Meet your instructor
Rachel Madsen
Rachel is a registered nurse with experience in home healthcare, long-term care, and emergency medicine. She is also a certified educator and has taught certified nursing assistants and other health science classes for over 20 years. She has been a school administrator and works as a health coach to assist others in improving…
Chapters & learning objectives
1. Introduction
This chapter sets the stage by highlighting the growing demand for HHAs and the importance of understanding their role within the healthcare team. Learners will explore the unique responsibilities of providing care in a home setting and the importance of recognizing their scope of practice. By the end of the chapter, participants will understand how their work fits into the larger healthcare framework.
2. Home Health Differences
In this chapter, learners will examine the key differences between working in a facility and providing care in a client’s home. Topics include managing transportation, working independently, navigating client and family relationships, and ensuring safety in a less controlled environment. Emphasis is placed on effective communication and adaptability to meet the unique challenges of home care.
3. Roles of the HHA
This chapter focuses on the primary roles of HHAs, including ensuring client safety, promoting independence, educating clients and caregivers, observing and reporting changes, and collaborating with other healthcare team members. Practical examples and tips help participants understand how to fulfill these roles while building strong client relationships and maintaining professionalism.
4. Tasks
This chapter outlines the typical tasks HHAs perform, such as assisting with personal care, meal preparation, light housekeeping, and monitoring client health. Learners will also explore the importance of following care plans and prioritizing tasks to meet clients’ needs effectively. Real-world scenarios illustrate how to manage various responsibilities with confidence.
5. Scope of Practice
Understanding the scope of practice is critical for HHAs. This chapter provides clear guidance on what HHAs can and cannot do, with examples of how to handle requests that fall outside their scope. By learning to set boundaries and communicate effectively, participants will be prepared to address challenging situations while ensuring client safety and compliance with regulations.
