Challenging Environments in Home Health?

Being a home health therapist can be a rewarding experience, but also comes with unique challenges. Think about possible car trouble, no parking, and bad weather. Moreover, whenever you encounter homes that aren’t clean or belong to hoarders. 

Here are four practical tips to help you stay calm and professional to handle these situations effectively.

Assess Safety First 

Safety should always be your top priority. Before even entering the home, take the time to check out the environment. If you notice anything that could be dangerous, discuss it with the patient or their caregiver. You should suggest changes to make the space safer for both of you.

Take Precautions 

Depending on the situation, wear personal protective equipment (PPE). Always use barriers when placing your bag down in a patient's home like a disposable pad or a plastic bag

Stay Calm and Professional 

Remember that a cluttered or dirty home could be a sign of deeper issues like anxiety, depression, or physical limitations. Approach the situation with empathy and avoid making judgments. Focus on your patient’s needs and the goals of your therapy session, which will help you stay calm and professional.

Problem-Solve

If the environment isn’t ideal, think outside the box. You might need to bring as few items with you as possible. Adjust your session to fit the available space, or suggest an outdoor session if the weather allows. I have done a few sessions on a patient's porch or in the backyard. 

Collaboration 

Make the effort to inform coworkers or collaborating clinicians about a patient's home that may be dirty or cluttered. You might say, "I wanted to give you a heads-up that the environment at Mr. Smith's home is challenging, as there is significant clutter and some areas are unsanitary. 

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