Home Care Non-Skilled Care Definitions

SKILLED CARE DEFINITIONS continued

not only to improve their basic motor functions and reasoning abilities, but also to compensate for permanent loss of function. Respiratory Therapy – Refers to services for care of patients with deficiencies and abnormalities associated with the cardiopulmonary system. It may include the therapeutic use of medical gases and their equipment, environmental control systems, humidification, aerosols, ventilator support, bronchi pulmonary drainage and exercise, respiratory rehabilitation, assistance with cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and maintenance of natural, artificial, and mechanical airways.

TRACH CARE – Refers to care administered to patients who have undergone a tracheotomy. A tracheotomy is a surgical procedure in which a cut or opening is made in the windpipe (trachea). The surgeon inserts a tube into the opening to bypass an obstruction, allow air to get to the lungs, or remove secretions.

WOUND CARE – Refers to services for providing diagnosis and treatment for ulcers, pressure sores and other wounds. Treatments may include but is not limited to irrigations, dressing, and wound vacs. Some agencies may employ specialty nurses to provide and instruct in care specifically for patients with more complicated wounds.

NON-SKILLED CARE DEFINITIONS

24 HOUR CARE – Refers to “round the clock treatment” in a home environment. The care may be shared by multiple caregivers or by a single caregiver.

24 HOUR ON CALL – Refers to someone being available 24 hours a day to speak with you.

ACCREDITED – Accrediting agencies are professional groups that establish and monitor voluntary, industry wide standards to ensure that patients receive quality home health care services. The Commission on Accreditation for Home Care, Inc. (CACH) and Community Health Accreditation Program (CHAP) are two of the accrediting agencies. ALZHEIMER’S DEMENTIA CARE – This refers to personnel of the agency that are specifically trained to provide care to those that are afflicted with Alzheimer’s or other dementia related problems. Continued on page 67