Navigating the Search for Skilled Nursing

With seniors and their families in mind, this is an article sponsored by Parkview Nursing and Rehabilitation

Do You Know What Skilled Nursing Is?

Skilled nursing is defined as a type of care given by a clinical team of nurses and therapists who provide patients with a comprehensive plan to assist with day-to-day activities. These care centers, often called skilled nursing facilities, observe patients who are unable to engage in routine activities independently. Skilled nursing programs typically involve physical, occupational, and speech therapies, and specialty services such as wound care.

Who Needs Skilled Nursing?

Individuals who need skilled nursing often require the following assistance:

• Eating, bathing, and dressing

• Walking and transferring from sitting to standing

• Recovery after surgery or illness

Home Care or Skilled Care?

It’s your choice to decide between a skilled nursing facility or your home. That personal decision often depends on a variety of factors. Bear in mind that receiving care in a skilled nursing setting has advantages worth considering.

• Amenities like dining, cable television, room service, and laundry care are among the many features that help patients feel more at home.

• Fine dining can be found at various upscale skilled nursing centers and many allow patients to modify their menus for personal preferences, dietary restrictions, and medical needs.

• Activity programs can help guests stay engaged and entertained. Skilled nursing centers find creative ways to lift moods and keep patients happy, from board games to bake sales, book clubs, and barbecues.

• State-of-the-art therapy programs use innovative technology to help patients improve various areas of their health.

• 24-hour nursing provides the clinical security patients and their families need around the clock.

• Private rooms are available at select facilities for patients who prefer privacy, while semi-private rooms can be convenient for those who are comfortable sharing the company of others.

While receiving care in the comfort of one’s home can be a convenient option for some, a skilled nursing facility can help alleviate the obligations of being at home while receiving compassionate care that feels just the same.

Three Skilled Care Considerations

Selecting a skilled nursing facility is not a decision to be taken lightly. Most wise patients and their families shop around for a center that meets their needs - both clinically and comfortably. When taking a tour, review the following to find the facility that fits the bill.

• Does it pass your five senses?

For example, does your environment smell clean and pleasant? Does the food satisfy your tastes? Is the building well-maintained and appointed? Is the air conditioning and humidity comfortable, and is everything you touch clean? Do the patients, residents, staff, and family members seem content?

• Is it prestigious?

Many facilities will claim to be the best, but it’s best to seek out care centers that proudly wear seals of approval in clinical excellence. For example, facilities recognized by reputable publications, such as Newsweek, routinely embody rigorous, patient-centered standards.

• Is the management and care staff available?

An admissions director or associate will likely give you the tour. Ask as many questions as necessary and take time to speak with other staff, including housekeeping, dietary, and administration. This will help you gauge the friendliness and accessibility of the staff pointing you to the facility that best suits your skilled nursing needs. 

By Cassie Johnson