Why the words get confused
In India, agencies use 'nurse', 'attendant', 'caretaker', 'ayah', and 'patient care' loosely. Families sometimes pay for a 'nurse' and receive an untrained helper, or pay nursing rates for help that only needs a caretaker. Knowing the roles helps you ask for — and pay for — the right support.
Home nurse
A home nurse is a qualified nurse (such as GNM or B.Sc Nursing) registered with a state nursing council. They can handle clinical tasks such as wound dressing, injections, catheter or feeding tube care, monitoring after surgery, and supporting a doctor's care plan. Always verify the qualification and registration.
Trained attendant or caretaker
An attendant or caretaker helps with daily living: bathing, toileting, dressing, feeding, moving safely, reminders to take medicines, and keeping the person company. Many have short training courses but are not nurses and should not carry out clinical procedures.
Companion
A companion offers conversation, walks, help with outings, reading, and light help around the home. This suits parents who are mostly independent but lonely, or who need someone around for safety and reassurance during the day.
Which one do you need?
Start with what your parent's day actually requires. Clinical tasks or recent surgery usually need a nurse — ask their doctor. Help with personal care and routines usually needs a trained attendant. Loneliness or light help may only need a companion. Many families combine roles, for example a daily attendant with a nurse visiting for specific tasks.
Questions to ask any provider
Which role is this person, and what training or qualification do they hold? What tasks will they and won't they do? What are the shift hours and replacement arrangements? Ask for the answers in writing, with charges in INR.
General guidance only. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical questions and verify provider arrangements directly.
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