Questions To Ask Before Hiring an In-Home Caregiver

When considering hiring an in-home caregiver, keep in mind it will require extensive research and time to find the perfect fit. MediNurse, the premier provider of private duty nursing care and health-related services for more than 30 years, outlines the questions you should be asking when looking to hire an in-home caregiver.

Oftentimes, the need for a caregiver is immediate and therefore the process to obtain one has to be rushed. Unfortunately, less than desirable caregivers can take advantage of your hurry and deceive you during the interview and selection process. The higher the pressure, the greater the chances are this will happen.

To prevent deception, consider the following when hiring independently:

1. Does the caregiver have references that reflect previous caregiving experience and have you carefully followed up on them?
2. How do you plan to conduct a thorough background check? A statewide check can be obtained through the Missouri Highway Patrol for a fee.
3. Does the caregiver have a current license or certification along with a CPR card? These are things to know in case of a medical emergency.
4. Make a list of tasks you will require for your loved one—is the caregiver equipped to accomplish these tasks?
5. How will you settle possible conflicts or disagreements?

Trust is the most significant variable in the relationship between a caregiver and client/family. Hiring a caregiver is a big step and dramatic change for a loved one, requiring time and patience. You must feel comfortable about the person you are bringing into your loved one’s home—or even your own.

Although it may be more cost effective to work directly with individual providers, it can be difficult to ensure the services you require for a loved one are actually being implemented. An agency can help relieve the stress associated with making these decisions and allow you to focus on the person receiving the care.

MediNurse is St. Louis’ premier provider of private duty nursing services. MediNurse provides services that are customized to the individual needs of the client or patient and loved ones to ensure the best care possible. For more information, call 314-781-2800 or visit www.medinurse.com.