What should a home health aide do if they notice changes in a patient's skin condition?

The appropriate action for a home health aide who observes changes in a patient's skin condition is to report those changes to the nurse or physician immediately. This ensures that a licensed healthcare professional can assess the situation and decide on the appropriate interventions. Changes in skin condition could indicate issues such as infections, pressure ulcers, or other significant health problems that require immediate attention.

Timely communication with medical personnel is crucial in a home health setting, as they can provide guidance on how to manage the situation safely and effectively. While documenting the changes is also important, it should not replace the need for immediate reporting to ensure the patient receives any necessary medical care without delay.