Allied Health - Other

Certified Home Health/Hospice Aide

The Certified Home Health/Hospice Aide (CHHA) is a paraprofessional member of the home care/hospice team. The CHHA works under the supervision of a registered nurse or therapist. The CHHA performs and assists patients with various personal care services as necessary to meet their personal needs and promote comfort. The CHHA is responsible for observing patients, reporting these observations, and documenting the care performed. The CHHA will be assigned in a manner that promotes quality, continuity, and safety of patient care. The CHHA will not function in any manner viewed as the practice of nursing according to the state's Nurse Practice Act. The CHHA will not administer medications, take physician's orders, or perform procedures requiring the training, knowledge, and skill of a nurse, such as sterile techniques. The position may require local travel between various locations. The CHHA must demonstrate the ability to work with a diverse group of people. The CHHA must maintain knowledge of technology, tools, equipment, and other devices in the work area. Infection control policies and procedures must be followed to minimize the risk of spreading infections. The CHHA must demonstrate energy, aptitude, and motivation in undertaking activities related to personal and work objectives. Effective listening and communication skills are necessary to establish good working relationships. The CHHA must show sensitivity and tact and understand their effect on the motivation and actions of others. Job knowledge and understanding of concepts and procedures essential for success in the role are required. The CHHA should effectively communicate orally and in writing. The candidate must demonstrate support and empathy while conveying knowledge to patients and families in a non-judgmental manner. Patient safety principles must be embraced, following safety policies and procedures, treating people with respect, and speaking up in relevant situations. A calm demeanor is essential when interacting with patients in their homes. The CHHA must understand hospice philosophy and be comfortable providing specialized care to the terminally ill. Empathy for the needs of the ill, injured, frail, and impaired is a requirement.