In most cases, a private duty nurse provides one-on-one care for a single patient. He could work in a health-care setting like a hospital or clinic, or he could care for the patient at home. A nurse in this position might work for a hospital, a nursing home, a hospice, a nurse staffing agency, or as a freelancer. A Registered Nurse (RN) or a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN/LVN) can work in this position.
Private duty nurses were more common in hospitals prior to the introduction of the intensive care unit (ICU) concept in the mid 1960s. In today’s ICUs, patients are usually given the individualized attention that was previously only available by hiring a private nurse. These nurses were usually hospital employees who had prior experience treating patients suffering from specific injuries or illnesses.
An RN or LPN/LVN who works in a hospital or clinic typically performs the same duties as a nurse who provides private care. He usually keeps track of the patient’s progress and monitors and evaluates their condition. If necessary, the private nurse takes emergency measures and administers treatments and medications to combat unfavorable health developments. On a daily basis, a private nurse communicates with the patient’s physician.
Situations that necessitate the services of a private duty nurse are usually brief. The nurse might be hired to help the patient transition from a hospital or clinic to his or her own home, or the home of a friend or relative. He is frequently called upon to teach in-home caregivers how to dispense medications and change dressings on wounds and incisions. Private nurses frequently supervise home caregivers for several days before releasing them to care for the patient on their own. These nurses are either on call for caregivers or visit the home on a regular basis to ensure that the quality of care is acceptable.
A private nurse is expected to be discreet due to the sensitive nature of his job. His good communication skills with the patient’s doctor and caregivers are frequently beneficial to him and his patient. A private duty nurse’s ability to adapt to changing environments is usually regarded as a plus.
Private duty nurses must have the same educational requirements as RNs or LPNs/LVNs, which include a bachelor’s degree and a nursing license. A position as a private nurse typically requires several years of nursing experience in a hospital or clinic. Some jobs as this type of nurse necessitate a specialization in obstetrics, cancer, or psychology.