What can I reasonably expect from visiting nurses?

The visiting nurse can only do what the MD has ordered. So you start by asking the MD to write an order for bathing, dressing, feeding and whatever else you need. Even an ALF has to have written orders.

Thank you so much. I will be seeing his doctor soon and will do as you suggest.

id expect em to be uglier than sin and trashed from the pills they swiped off the previous client .

Well, not quite the answer I was expecting but at least you made me laugh.

To be eligible for Medicare payment, A home health agency (visiting nurse service) can provide intermittent skilled services that are medically necessary to an individual who is essentially homebound. The key here will be whether there is a skilled need. The services that you list are what Medicare would consider custodial but there could be other needs that would make him skilled. I would suggest you contact a home health agency in your area and describe your father's situation even before seeing the doc. Docs unfortunately don't always understand what agencies can do and most good agencies will take a referral from a family member and then contact the doc for orders explaining why they think the patient would qualify. Many times, the doc will allow the agency to do an assessment visit to determine eligibility. If your Dad's not eligible, this visit should be at no charge to you. Good luck!

I hope I can get more to the point and answer your question. If you are at the point where an agency has been found and a nurse assigned here is what you can expect in the line of everyday routine care. During the nurses time there the nurse would do any ADLs, completely or assist client with what they can't do in terms of washing, dressing, mouth care.They can make a meal for client and feed them or assist client to feed themselves. Yes they do incontinent care and skin care . A nurse will give all meds and do all treatments as ordered.
You need to be clear on the frequency of the visits and the days and hours. You need to be clear on the type of visit the nurse is there for. For example a treatment visit is just that. The nurse does whatever skilled care is needed. She does not do routine care. Usually a treatment visit is only 2 hours. Get treatment done, write a nurses note and go. You may give your input during regular visits. Being specific about the routine you want your love one to have should be voiced. Keep in mind all the nurses crystal balls are in the shop and they lost their psychic and mind reading abilities. If you do not speak up they will get all the things done on the care plan and carry out Doctors order.Unless your loved one can direct there own care they will go by their own routine. So I will give water with all meds not knowing your loved one likes juice better. As they won't or can't make their needs known. Hope this helps.

Thank you both for your answers. My relative is a veteran and can get visiting nurses for free from the VA. We are seeing his geriatric doctor on Friday and I will discuss all this with her. At this point all I need is someone to wash and dress him, with or without my help. Thanks again!