Florida Home Health Aide Competency Practice Test

What is a permissible action for a home health aide in patient care?

1. Giving a rectal suppository

2. Cutting nails

3. Assisting with bathing

4. Changing a sterile dressing

The correct answer is: Assisting with bathing

A permissible action for a home health aide in patient care is assisting with bathing, as it falls within the scope of their training and duties. Home health aides are typically trained to help patients with daily living activities, which include personal hygiene and bathing. This support is crucial for individuals who may have difficulty maintaining their personal care due to mobility limitations, health conditions, or other factors. In contrast, some of the other tasks mentioned involve responsibilities that may be beyond the home health aide's scope of practice. For instance, administering a rectal suppository or changing a sterile dressing may require more specialized skills or training, often performed by a licensed nurse or medical professional to ensure proper technique and to adhere to safety protocols. Cutting nails could also raise risks for patients with certain conditions, like diabetes, and may be managed by a healthcare professional to prevent complications. Thus, assisting with bathing aligns with the responsibilities designated for a home health aide, ensuring that patients receive appropriate support for their day-to-day needs.