Home Health Aide

Job Summary

The Home Health Aide (HHA) provides compassionate, high-quality personal care and supportive services to clients in their homes. Under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) or designated supervisor, the Home Health Aide assists clients with activities of daily living (ADLs), promotes independence, ensures client safety, and contributes to maintaining a clean, healthy, and comfortable home environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Personal Care

• Assist clients with bathing, showering, grooming, and personal hygiene.
• Assist with dressing and undressing.
• Provide oral hygiene and denture care.
• Assist with toileting, continence care, and incontinence management.
• Assist with transfers, ambulation, positioning, and mobility.
• Help clients with eating and feeding when necessary.
• Assist with range-of-motion exercises as directed.

Health Monitoring

• Observe and report changes in the client's physical, emotional, or mental condition.
• Measure and document vital signs when permitted by state regulations and agency policy.
• Prompt or remind clients to take prescribed medications (when authorized).
• Immediately report emergencies, accidents, or unusual incidents to the supervising nurse or agency.

Homemaking Support

• Perform light housekeeping, including:
• • Laundry
  • Changing bed linens
  • Vacuuming
  • Sweeping and mopping
  • Dusting
  • Dishwashing
  • Bathroom and kitchen cleaning
• Prepare nutritious meals according to dietary requirements.
• Assist with grocery shopping and essential errands.

Client Support

• Provide companionship and emotional support.
• Encourage independence while ensuring client safety.
• Accompany clients to medical appointments or community activities when authorized.
• Maintain respectful communication with clients and family members.

Documentation

• Complete accurate daily visit notes and required agency documentation.
• Record services provided according to agency policy.
• Maintain confidentiality of all client information in compliance with HIPAA and applicable privacy laws.

Safety Responsibilities

• Follow infection control procedures.
• Utilize proper body mechanics during lifting and transfers.
• Maintain a safe environment by identifying and reporting hazards.
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) as required.

Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

Certification

• Current Home Health Aide (HHA) Certification meeting state requirements.
• CPR and First Aid certification preferred.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation (if travel is required).

Experience

• Previous home care, nursing assistant, or caregiving experience preferred.
• Experience working with elderly, disabled, or chronically ill individuals is an asset.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Compassionate, patient, and dependable.
• Ability to maintain client confidentiality.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong observation and reporting skills.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Basic documentation and computer/mobile app skills.
• Ability to safely lift, transfer, and assist clients according to agency policy.

Compliance Requirements

The Home Health Aide must comply with:

• Federal, state, and local regulations governing home care services.
• Agency policies and procedures.
• HIPAA privacy and confidentiality requirements.
• Infection prevention and control standards.
• OSHA workplace safety regulations.

Performance Expectations

• Provide safe, compassionate, and person-centered care.
• Arrive on time and maintain reliable attendance.
• Maintain professional appearance and conduct.
• Complete documentation accurately and promptly.
• Demonstrate respect for client rights, dignity, privacy, and cultural diversity.
• Communicate effectively with clients, families, and the interdisciplinary care team.