Your first community nursing visit is the start of a supportive relationship designed to help you stay safe, comfortable, and confident at home. If you’re a DVA Gold or White Card holder, your nursing support is guided by clinical need and tailored to your routine. Here’s what you can expect from your first visit.
Before the visit
Once your referral is received:
- A Registered Nurse contacts you to confirm your needs.
- The nurse will explain the reason for the visit and discuss timing.
- You’ll be asked about anything you want the nurse to know before coming.
Some people feel nervous about a first home visit — that’s normal. The nurse’s role is supportive, respectful, and practical.
What happens when the nurse arrives
Your nurse will:
- Introduce themselves clearly
They’ll show identification and explain their role. - Confirm consent and comfort
The nurse will confirm you’re happy for them to enter and proceed. You’re always in control. - Discuss your goals and concerns
The nurse will ask in plain language what you want help with and what matters most to you.
The clinical assessment
The first visit includes a health assessment relevant to your referral. This may involve:
- checking vital signs (if needed)
- reviewing medication routines
- looking at wounds or dressings
- assessing mobility and falls risk
- reviewing hygiene or continence needs
- discussing symptoms or pain
- checking diet, hydration, and general wellbeing
Not everything is assessed in one go — the nurse focuses on what is clinically relevant and comfortable for you.
Creating your care plan
Based on the assessment, the nurse develops a care plan that sets out:
- what services you need
- how often visits should occur
- what the nurse will do during visits
- what you or your carer can manage independently
- how your GP or specialist will be updated
Your plan can change over time — it’s reviewed regularly.
Practical support during the first visit
Depending on your needs, your nurse may also provide:
- a dressing change
- medication prompts or a medication review
- catheter or stoma care
- hygiene support
- education on symptom monitoring
- safety guidance for the home
If you need equipment or allied health support, the nurse can coordinate referrals.
What you can prepare (optional)
You don’t need to do anything special, but these can help:
- have your medications nearby
- keep your DVA card handy
- note any questions you want to ask
- if you have wounds, wear comfortable clothing for easy access
- if you use aids (walker, cane), have them available
Respect, privacy, and choice
Your nurse:
- works respectfully in your space
- protects your privacy
- explains everything before doing it
- checks in if you need breaks
- honours cultural or personal preferences
- involves family/carers only with your consent
After the visit
Before leaving, the nurse will:
- confirm next visit time
- explain any follow-up actions
- ensure you know who to contact if you need help sooner
- document the visit and update your GP where required
When to contact your nurse between visits
Call your provider if:
- symptoms worsen
- a wound changes (pain, redness, ooze, smell)
- you feel dizzy, unwell, or unsafe
- you miss medication
- you have a fall or injury
- you’re unsure about anything
You’re never “bothering” your nurse. Prompt contact prevents complications.
Final reassurance
Home nursing is about helping you live well on your terms. The first visit is the beginning of a partnership focused on your safety, recovery, and independence.Need to arrange a first visit?
Call 1300 71 09 63 — we’ll guide you through it.
