What Goes On In A Skilled Nursing And Rehabilitation Facility?

When caring for an elderly parent or relative, there may come a time when their health conditions require that they be placed in a skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility. This is typically the time when most people begin thinking about the inner workings of a nursing home. The interdisciplinary nature of caring for patients in a skilled nursing facility makes for a complex coordination of tasks. The ultimate goal, however, is to help each patient meet the challenges of their personal healthcare plan.

Skilled nursing patients in need of health services or rehabilitation may opt for long or short stays in a nursing home. Family and friends may visit their loved one in the nursing facility as the patient progresses on his or her rehabilitation plan. If the patient is ill then he or she may be provided IV medication or put on hospice care. The nursing staff provides continuous care for the resident patients and completes other medical services at the request of each patient's physician.

Persistent health problems and illness can become very serious as a person ages. Surgical procedures can also require physical rehabilitation, in the case of hip and knee replacement surgeries. The staff at a nursing home are well trained and interdisciplinary. These highly trained individuals must work together on personalized patient care plans. The nursing and rehab teams must be able to handle a wide variety of healthcare procedures. Skilled nursing facilities care for their patients around the clock. Accurate patient documentation must be maintained throughout the process. This ensures that the next group of staff members remains up to date on how patients are progressing.

The state Department of Health and Human Services regulates nursing facilities in the individual state that the facility is operating in. The state regulations require that the nursing facilities pass various tests in order to remain operational. The facilities are tested for quality of care and cleanliness among other things, like patient documentation. Higher rated facilities gain more local credibility.

Assisted living facilities and home care options are not best suited to provide proper care for complex health issues. Falling risks and diseases like Alzheimer's, dementia and diabetic complications are more appropriate for care in a nursing home.

A nursing rehabilitation facility typically provides, wound, dementia and diabetic care, IV medication, pain management. Rehabilitation services like, Speech, Occupational and Physical Therapies are also made available. A nursing facility will also provide social services and activities along with necessities like, laundry service and basic transportation.

All residents are professionally assessed and an individual care plan is developed. Every employee at a nursing care center must provide compassionate care. With the support of all nursing and rehabilitation staff, every patient should be inspired to reach their goals.