Nursing care, in the home, by licensed practical nurse, per diem
HCPCS code
Name of the Procedure:
Nursing care in the home, by licensed practical nurse (LPN), per diem (HCPCS T1031)
Summary
Nursing care in the home provided by a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) involves professional medical care delivered in the comfort and familiarity of a patient's home. This type of care is typically provided on an ongoing, per day basis and includes a range of medical and personal care services.
Purpose
Home nursing care is designed to assist with medical needs that can be managed outside of a hospital setting. This care can help patients recover from illnesses or surgery, manage chronic conditions, and maintain independence. The goal is to provide high-quality medical care while allowing patients to remain in their homes.
Indications
- Post-operative care
- Chronic illness management (e.g., diabetes, hypertension)
- Palliative care
- Rehabilitation services
- Medication management
Preparation
Patients should provide a detailed medical history and current medications list prior to care beginning. Specific instructions may depend on individual healthcare needs but typically, no special preparation (like fasting) is required for general nursing care provided by an LPN.
Procedure Description
- Assessment: The LPN will assess the patient's medical condition and needs upon arrival.
- Care Plan Implementation: Based on a doctor's orders or a care plan, the LPN will administer medications, change wound dressings, check vital signs, and provide other necessary medical care.
- Patient Education: The LPN will educate the patient and family members about ongoing care, medication use, and symptom management.
- Documentation: All care provided is thoroughly documented for continuity and to ensure quality of care.
Tools, Equipment, or Technology Used:
- Blood pressure monitors
- Glucometers
- Wound care supplies
- Medication administration tools
Anesthesia or Sedation:
Not applicable.
Duration
Care is typically provided on a per diem basis; the duration of each visit can vary depending on patient needs but generally ranges from 1 to several hours daily.
Setting
The procedure takes place in the patient's home.
Personnel
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
- Occasionally supervised by a Registered Nurse (RN) or physician for complex cases
Risks and Complications
- Infection (rare, but possible with wound care)
- Medication errors (managed with careful administration and documentation)
- Limited emergency care (home settings are less equipped to handle acute emergencies compared to hospitals)
Benefits
- Improved comfort and quality of life by staying at home
- Personalized medical attention
- May reduce hospital readmissions
- Quicker recovery times for some conditions
Recovery
Since this is an ongoing care service, recovery and progress can vary. Patients will likely need continuous, but potentially decreasing, care over time. Instructions include follow-up visits, regular monitoring, and adjustments to care plans as needed.
Alternatives
- Inpatient hospital care
- Skilled nursing facility
- Outpatient clinic services
Pros and Cons of Alternatives:
- Inpatient Hospital Care: Comprehensive but less comfortable and more expensive.
- Skilled Nursing Facility: Provides dedicated care but can be less personal and homely.
- Outpatient Clinic Services: More cost-effective but less convenient and potentially need frequent travel.
Patient Experience
Patients generally find home nursing care soothing. They may experience initial discomfort or anxiety but typically appreciate the familiarity of home and personalized attention. Pain management and comfort measures are routinely provided by the LPN to ensure a pleasant experience.