What is the primary goal of home health nursing?

The primary goal of home health nursing is to provide patient-centered care and promote health and independence in a home setting. This approach focuses on understanding the unique needs of each patient and tailoring care to support their individual health goals. Home health nurses work collaboratively with patients, families, and other healthcare providers to create a care plan that encourages patients to manage their own health conditions effectively, maintain their independence, and improve their overall quality of life. Such a holistic approach also encompasses education on self-care, medication management, and lifestyle adjustments, which empowers patients and fosters a supportive environment for recovery and health maintenance.

Other options highlight aspects that do not align with the core mission of home health nursing. For example, performing surgical procedures is typically not a function of home health nurses, as these interventions require specialized environments and skills that are beyond the scope of home care. Similarly, while diagnosing and treating acute medical conditions is an important aspect of nursing, home health nursing often focuses on chronic disease management and support rather than acute care exclusively. Finally, ensuring that patients receive hospital-based care at home contradicts the goal of promoting independence, as it suggests a reliance on hospital-type services rather than fostering self-management skills in a more autonomous living situation.