How to Find a Nurse

A nurse is a medical professional who helps care for patients. Nurses perform a wide variety of duties, which may include assisting patients after they've been through surgery. Under certain circumstances, you or a loved one may need to employ the services of a private-duty nurse. A private-duty nurse can help patients who face ongoing illness or are recovering from an operation, aiding them in meeting their daily needs. Finding a competent nurse is a vital aspect of proper health care.

Instructions

• 1

  Find out what type of nurse you need. There are several different kinds of nurses. Two of the most common are LPN/LVNs and RNs. LPN and LVN are licensed practical and vocational nurses. RNs are registered nurses. LPNs complete between nine and 18 months of post-secondary nursing-related education. RNs complete between two years and four years at a community college or school of nursing. Each type of nurse must pass state licensing exams in order to practice medicine.

• 2

  Figure out if you need a nurse with specialized certifications. Many RNs, after receiving their degree, also gain additional training in certain areas, such as diabetes education or care for patients with nephrology needs. Certifications usually consist of a combination of on-the-job training and specific classes. Specialized nurses may be licensed by the state to perform additional duties. A nurse with a specialty can help you avoid more costly care options, and may even allow you to remain in your own home rather than in a hospital or nursing home.

• 3

  Contact hospitals. Many nurses work primarily in a hospital setting. A nurse with whom you have an established relationship in the hospital may be available for additional hours of care during the week. Hospital officials can also help you find a qualified nurse.

• 4

  Get in touch with colleges and schools of nursing. Find a local college that offers a nursing major. If you have low-level medical needs that do not require experienced help, consider hiring a recent nursing school graduate. Nurses must pass licensing exams in order to practice, so make sure that the nurse's credentials are in order before you make the hire.

• 5

  Speak to a local nursing staffing agency. Nursing staffing agencies work with nurses to place them in temporary employment, often on a part-time basis. If you need a nurse for only a short period of time, this may be an ideal solution. Nursing staffing agencies vet candidates to make sure that their credentials are current. A nursing staffing agency may be able to locate a private-duty nurse who thoroughly understands your medical needs.