Home Health Aide
Alt Names: HHA, Certified Home Health Aide (CHHA), Personal Care Aide, Direct Support Professional
Career Description
Home Health Aides assist people who have disabilities that require constant care and assistance. Ailments mostly associated with the need of having HHS’s are: those with mobile disabilities, those with mental disabilities, and those who are cognitively impaired.
Job Responsibilities
Provide transportation assistance to patients (moving in and out of bed, going places outside of the home)
Administer prescribed medication
Care for adults or children who are disabled or ill
Plan, purchase, and prepare meals for patients as directed by their healthcare practitioner
Apply preparation and treatments prior to massaging joints
Record patients information
Light housekeeping
Education & Training
Entry Level: High school or equivalent
Important Courses & Info:
On-The-Job training provided by employees agency
License and/or Certification
HHA Certification certified by the National Association for Home Care & Hospice **This certification is not always needed and requirement varies by state**
Salary
Median: $20,668 [Source: Payscale.com]
Valuable Skills and Qualities
This occupation is good for people who are
Empathetic
Self motivated
Quick learners
Interested in starting a career in the nursing field but only have a high school/GED certificate
- Vocational learners
Work Environment/ Setting
Clients home, large care communities, small group homes, residential mental health facilities, Nursing Care facilities
Similar Careers
Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA)
Nursing Aides, Orderlies, and Attendants
Childcare Workers
Social and Human Service Assistants