Sometimes, aging loved ones can experience health issues that go beyond what family members can handle. In these instances, skilled nursing fills a vital need. Skilled nursing facilities offer professional healthcare, around-the-clock care, and rehabilitation services. They ensure that patients receive the highest level of care. For families facing challenging healthcare decisions, skilled nursing provides the support and care they need when managing chronic health conditions. These services can help families maintain their loved one’s well-being.
Understanding Skilled Nursing
When loved ones require specialized intervention for health conditions, skilled nursing provides the highest level of care. When your loved one is in need of skilled nursing, they will gain access to registered nurses, physical therapists, and occupational therapists.
These communities provide integrative health care, offering specialized treatments for individuals recovering from illness or surgery or needing ongoing care for severe health conditions. The following are some services you can expect from skilled nursing facilities.
24-Hour Medical Care
Unlike assisted living, skilled nursing offers 24-hour medical care for senior residents. Nurses and healthcare providers monitor residents around the clock to ensure their health and well-being.
Rehabilitation Therapy
Residents can access many types of therapy, including physical, occupational, and speech. These services can help patients regain their health and mobility.
Medication Management
Skilled nurses ensure that patients receive their medications on a proper schedule and take them as directed to protect their health.
Wound Care and Post-Surgical Recovery
Patients will receive the integral care they need for wounds and surgical recovery. Proper treatment helps prevent infections and promotes faster healing.
Nutritional Support
Dieticians plan meals that support patient recovery. Proper nutrition can help your health and well-being.
When Does Your Loved One Need Skilled Nursing?
Skilled nursing offers the highest level of residential medical care. Many licensed professionals, including registered nurses, offer these services. The following are everyday situations when family members may need to consider skilled nursing for a loved one.
- Recovery from surgery or hospitalization: Patients who have undergone surgery or an extended hospitalization may need rehabilitation services and ongoing supervised medical care as they recover.
- Chronic illness management: Conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and Parkinson’s disease require specialized care. Patients with these conditions can receive the integrated medical care they need in these facilities.
- Cognitive decline and dementia care: Patients with memory-related conditions need structured and compassionate care. They can find this care in skilled nursing facilities.
- Rehabilitation after a stroke: Skilled nursing can help patients regain mobility, speech, and independence. Stroke victims need various forms of rehab to recover from strokes successfully.
- Palliative and hospice care: Skilled nursing facilities also treat patients who need palliative and hospice care when facing terminal illnesses. These services can give family members peace of mind, knowing their loved one is in good hands.
How to Choose the Right Skilled Nursing Facility
Finding the right skilled nursing facility can be challenging for families. The right facility ensures your loved one receives the specialized care they need. You should consider the following when looking for a skilled nursing facility.
- Check for licensing and accreditation.
- Ensure the staff is qualified to provide care.
- Read reviews to determine the quality of care.
- Ensure the facility is clean and safe for patients.
- Check on the range of services offered by the facility.
If your loved one needs a skilled nursing facility, the guide above should help. Take time to research and learn as much as possible about the options so you can make an informed decision.
