Certified Home Health Aide

Certified Home Health Aides (HHAs) are healthcare professionals who provide non-medical, in-home support services to clients under the supervision of a Registered Nurse, according to an authorized plan of care. HHAs assist patients with personal care, exercise, ambulation, and nutrition, depending on client needs. HHAs also reposition and transfer patients who are sedentary.

What are the requirements to become a Certified Home Health Aide?

• Candidates must hold a high school diploma or GED
• Have a driver’s license and clean driving record
• Pass a physical (health) screening and criminal background check
• Complete a California Department of Public Health (CDPH) approved training program consisting of 120 hours of classroom training and clinical work
• Pass a state HHA certification examination
• Possess current CPR Certification

What are the job duties of Certified Home Health Aides?

HHA job duties include some or all of the following:

• Assist with administering patients’ medicine
• Combing hair, shaving, caring for nails, brushing teeth and other daily personal tasks
• Dressing wounds
• Turning, repositioning or transferring sedentary patients
• Taking patient vital signs
• Light housekeeping, washing dishes, doing laundry
• Schedule and plan appointments
• Assist with grocery shopping and preparing meals
• Help with medical equipment such as ventilators
• Communicate with families regarding medical care for the patient