Guide
A simple plan-of-care checklist for the first week at home
Agencies work from a clinical plan of care. Families still need a household plan so the aide and the daughter are not improvising.
Key takeaways
- Put meds, allergies, and the 24-hour contact on one sheet on the fridge.
- Separate clinical tasks from household tasks so nobody assumes the nurse will do laundry.
- Review the plan after three visits — needs change fast.
On the fridge
Primary doctor, pharmacy, agency after-hours line, DNR/POLST status if it exists, mobility limits, and “do not” items (no leftover rugs, no left-side blood pressure, etc.).
Daily rhythm
Wake time, meals, toileting help, planned walks, and the therapy homework. Home health works better when the visit is not a surprise in the middle of a nap.
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