Q: How does skilled nursing differ from custodial care?
A: Skilled nursing care involves medical or therapeutic services provided by licensed professionals, aimed at treating specific health conditions or injuries. Custodial care, on the other hand, refers to assistance with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating, which do not require medical expertise.
Q: Can skilled nursing care be provided at home?
A: Yes, skilled nursing care can be provided at home through home health care services. This allows patients to receive professional medical care in the comfort of their own home, tailored to their specific health needs.
Q: Is skilled nursing care covered by insurance?
A: Skilled nursing care is often covered by health insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid, under specific conditions and for a limited period. Coverage depends on the patient's insurance plan and the medical necessity of the skilled nursing services. It's advisable to consult with your insurance provider for detailed information about your coverage.
Q: How does skilled nursing support families and caregivers?
A: Skilled nursing not only focuses on the patient's health but also provides support and education to families and caregivers. This includes teaching them how to care for the patient's needs at home, understanding the patient's condition and treatment plan, and offering counseling and support to manage the emotional challenges of caregiving.
Q: What exactly is skilled nursing care?
A: Skilled nursing care is a high level of medical care provided by licensed health professionals, including registered nurses (RNs), physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech-language pathologists. This care is typically required for individuals recovering from illness, injury, or surgery and involves medical monitoring, pain management, medication administration, wound care, and rehabilitation services.
Q: When is skilled nursing care necessary?
A: Skilled nursing care may be necessary after a hospital stay, surgery, or a significant decline in health status. It's recommended for individuals who need continuous medical supervision, complex wound dressings, rehabilitation services, or specific medical procedures that cannot be self-administered.
Q: What kind of treatments and services can skilled nurses provide?
A: Skilled nurses can provide a wide range of treatments and services, including but not limited to, wound care, intravenous (IV) therapy, injections, catheter care, ostomy care, monitoring of vital signs and medical equipment, medication management, and coordination of care with physicians.
Q: How do I choose a skilled nursing facility or service?
A: When choosing a skilled nursing facility or service, consider factors such as the qualifications and experience of the medical staff, the range of services offered, the facility's cleanliness and safety measures, patient reviews and satisfaction, and the facility's compliance with healthcare regulations. It's also important to visit the facility in person, if possible, and ask questions about patient care, staff-to-patient ratios, and personalized care plans.
