Hoitajia

Hoitajia is the plural form of hoitaja in Finnish, meaning caregivers or nurses. The term refers to professionals who provide direct care and assistance to people with health or daily living needs. The exact role and title can vary by country and setting, but generally includes practical nurses (lähihoitaja) and registered nurses (sairaanhoitaja) depending on qualifications.

Hoitajat perform a range of tasks related to daily care and health monitoring. Typical duties include assisting with personal hygiene, mobility and daily living activities, meal support and nutrition, monitoring health status such as vital signs, administering medications as authorized, wound care, and documenting care and observations. They also provide emotional support, patient advocacy, and help ensure safety and comfort for patients and residents.

Work settings for hoitajia include hospitals, long-term care facilities and nursing homes, home care services, rehabilitation centers, clinics, schools, and disability services. They usually work under the supervision of physicians, nurses, or other healthcare professionals and collaborate with families and other staff to implement care plans.

Education and career paths vary by country and setting. In Finland, the term covers several qualification levels. A lähihoitaja is a practical nurse trained through vocational education to perform direct care tasks, while a sairaanhoitaja or registered nurse has higher education and broader responsibilities. Ongoing training and specialization are available in areas such as elderly care, rehabilitation, mental health, pediatrics, and palliative care. The role is essential for patient comfort, safety, and continuity of care within the health and social care system.