Health Care Rules About Home Nurses

Rules governing the licensed care nurses can legally provide varies by specialty. A home care nurse has some autonomy because they are not being directly supervised and have no immediate support when situations arise. Knowing the rules and regulations are key to success as a home nurse.

Review Federal Regulations

• Review the regulations governing home health care. You must meet certain nursing criteria to comply with federal regulations and to receive Medicare reimbursement.

Review State Nurse Practice Act

• Each state has different regulations for nurses. Most states differentiate between the legal duties and responsibilities of an RN (Registered Nurse) and LVN/ LPN (Licensed Vocational/ Licensed Practical Nurse), weighing heavily on the legal responsibilities of the RN.

Review Organizational Policy

• Each home health organization will have its own policies and procedures governing staff duties and obligations. These policies and procedures must comply with federal and state regulations, but they may be more stringent to improve quality of care for patients.