Home Care / Case Management Case Study

 

Home Care / Case Management Case Study
Introduction
In this case study, we will be examining the care of an elderly client who has recently been diagnosed with diabetes and is recovering from open heart surgery complicated by pneumonia. The patient requires assistance with activities of daily living and has various concerns regarding her safety at home. The daughter, who lives out of state, is requesting assistance in managing her mother’s care. In this essay, we will address several questions related to this case study.

1. The Difference between Care Management and Case Management
Care management and case management are both important aspects of healthcare coordination, but they differ in their focus and scope. Care management primarily focuses on coordinating and managing the healthcare services provided to an individual, ensuring that the appropriate care is delivered efficiently and effectively. On the other hand, case management involves a broader approach that encompasses not only healthcare services but also psychosocial, financial, and legal aspects to support the overall well-being of the individual.

2. Proprietary Agency in Home Healthcare
A proprietary agency in home healthcare refers to a privately owned organization that provides home care services. These agencies operate for-profit and may have specific areas of specialization, such as skilled nursing care, personal care assistance, or therapy services. They are typically licensed and regulated by state health departments and adhere to specific guidelines and standards.

3. Skilled and Non-Skilled Nursing Care Examples
In this case, the client requires both skilled and nonskilled nursing care.

An example of skilled nursing care would be wound care management post-surgery. This includes assessing and dressing surgical wounds, monitoring for signs of infection or complications, and providing appropriate wound care interventions.

An example of nonskilled nursing care would be assisting the client with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as helping her get in and out of bed, assisting with showering, and addressing leg cramps through simple interventions like massage or providing heat/cold therapy.

4. Services/Referrals for the Care Plan
The care plan for this client should address the following areas:

Safety concerns: A referral to a home safety assessment program can be made to evaluate potential hazards in the client’s living environment and make recommendations for modifications to improve safety.
Medication management: A referral to a pharmacist or a medication management program can be made to ensure proper medication administration, education, and monitoring.
Transportation assistance: Referrals to transportation services or programs that provide transportation for medical appointments can be explored to address the client’s inability to get to her primary care doctor independently.
Caregiver support: Referrals to caregiver support groups or respite care services can be considered to provide the daughter with additional support and resources in managing her mother’s care from a distance.
Diabetes education: A referral to a diabetes educator can be made to provide the client with comprehensive education on diabetes self-management, including medication administration, dietary considerations, and blood glucose monitoring.
5. Example of Case Management Program/Process
An example of a case management program that illustrates effective coordination of care is the “Care Transitions Program” at my community clinical site. This program focuses on supporting patients transitioning from hospital to home or other care settings. The case manager works closely with the patient, their family members, and healthcare providers to ensure a smooth transition and continuity of care. They conduct thorough assessments, develop personalized care plans, coordinate necessary services (such as home health visits or physical therapy), provide education on medications and self-care, and facilitate follow-up appointments with primary care providers. The case manager also maintains regular communication with all involved parties to monitor progress and address any challenges or concerns that may arise during the transition period.

Conclusion
In conclusion, effective case management plays a crucial role in coordinating care for patients in home healthcare settings. It involves not only managing healthcare services but also addressing psychosocial, financial, and legal aspects. In this case study, a client with newly diagnosed diabetes and recovering from open heart surgery requires both skilled and nonskilled nursing care. The care plan should focus on safety concerns, medication management, transportation assistance, caregiver support, and diabetes education. Through well-coordinated case management programs/processes, individuals can receive comprehensive care that supports their overall well-being and promotes successful transitions between different healthcare settings.