Preparing for a Visit from an Agency

In order the get the best service out of your home health care agency there are some things you can do to prepare before a visit.

This information should be communicated both verbally and in writing to the agency and caregiver who will be caring for the patient:

• Specific illness or injury, and signs of an emergency medical situation
  
  
• Likes and dislikes such as preference for being addressed by first or last name
  
  
• Medications currently taken, how often, what for
  
  
• Other medical supply needs and/or care required
  
  
• Behavioral or mental problems
  
  
• Use of eye glasses, dentures, walking cane, wheelchair, etc.
  
  
• Special nutritional needs or diet
  
  
• Mobility, limitations with activities of daily living
  
  
• Special clothing or shoes
  
  
• How you and other family members can be contacted
  
  
•  When to lock up the apartment/house, where to find keys, how to use and set the burglar alarm
  
  
•  Where to find food, cooking utensils, serving items
  
  
• Where to find cleaning supplies, light bulbs, flash light
  
  
• Which family members or friends have permission to be in the apartment/house