Name of the Procedure:

Nursing Care in the Home by Licensed Practical Nurse (HCPCS S9124)

Summary

In-home nursing care provided by a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), billed per hour. It includes a range of medical and supportive care services administered in the patient's home.

Purpose

This service addresses various medical conditions requiring professional nursing care. The main goals are to manage chronic illnesses, assist with post-surgical recovery, provide palliative care, and ensure adherence to treatment plans, ultimately enhancing the patient's quality of life.

Indications

• Chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, or COPD
• Post-operative recovery assistance
• Palliative care for terminal illnesses
• Rehabilitation after hospital discharge
• Medication management
• Wound care, including dressing changes

Preparation

• No specific preparation required from the patient.
• Initial assessment by the healthcare provider to determine care needs.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Assessment: Evaluate the patient's condition and medical history.
2. Care Plan Development: Create a personalized nursing care plan.
3. Daily Activities: Includes vital signs monitoring, medication administration, wound care, and other nursing tasks outlined in the care plan.
4. Patient Education: Educate the patient and family members on disease management and care practices.
5. Documentation: Record all care activities and observations in the patient's medical record.

Tools & Equipment:

• Blood pressure cuffs, thermometers, and glucose meters
• Wound care supplies
• PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)

Anesthesia or Sedation:

• Not applicable.

Duration

By the hour, as prescribed by the healthcare provider.

Setting

• Conducted in the patient's home.

Personnel

• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Risks and Complications

• Rare risks include misadministration of medications, infections from improper wound care, and potential communication errors.

Benefits

• Convenient, personalized care in the comfort of the patient's home.
• Improved management of chronic conditions.
• Enhanced recovery post-surgery.
• Increased patient and family education leading to better health outcomes.

Recovery

• Continual assessment and adjustment of the care plan.
• No specific recovery time as it is ongoing care.
• Regular follow-up appointments as necessary.

Alternatives

• Hospital or outpatient clinic visits.
• Home health aide services for non-medical support.
• Assisted living facilities.

Pros and Cons:

• Home Care: More comfortable and less disruptive for the patient, but might lack immediate access to advanced medical technologies available in a hospital.
• Hospital Visits: Access to comprehensive medical care but can be more stressful and less convenient for regular monitoring.

Patient Experience

• Home environment may provide more comfort and reduce anxiety.
• Possible mild discomfort during certain procedures like wound dressing changes.
• Ongoing communication with the LPN for better understanding and management of the care.