Skilled nursing services are available to any individual within the Natick VNA service area regardless of their ability to pay.

The nursing process

A registered nurse (RN) conducts an in-home evaluation to assess your needs. The RN contacts your physician to coordinate your care and develop a plan that will support you in your recovery and illness or disease management so that you can remain safely in your home. He or she helps you to determine if the nursing care is covered by your insurance plan, and helps you to obtain the resources you need to receive your health care at home.

Obtaining a referral

A primary physician, nurse practitioner, social worker, individual family member, or caregiver can refer individuals to the Natick VNA for an in-home evaluation for care.

Nursing services include:

• Acute and chronic disease care and management; and
• Acute illness and post-surgical recovery.

Nursing also includes treatments and interventions such as:

• Physical assessment and monitoring;
• Blood sample collection;
• Oxygen analysis and monitoring;
• Wound and ostomy care;
• Catheter care and management;
• Medication and medical supply management;
• Other treatments your physician may order;
• Illness, disease, medication, and diet instruction and planning;
• Complex care coordination; ◦ Telemonitoring;
• Pain and symptom management;
• Care management for Alzheimer's disease, heart disease, congestive heart failure and diabetes;
• Safety risk assessment and injury prevention;
• Wound care and healing; and
• Palliative and end-of-life care.