When you or a loved one experiences an accident or severe acute illness, you deserve to find a care plan to help you regain independence. You might feel hesitant to choose skilled nursing care, especially if you’re unfamiliar with how this type of care works daily. To help you prepare for this type of care, learn about a day in the life of a skilled nursing patient.
Why Choose Skilled Nursing Care?
Skilled nursing patients receive one-to-one care and individualized healing programs, which can result in faster recovery and long-term health benefits. This type of care works well for people who have experienced a stroke, brain injury, leg or hip fracture, or any other debilitating neurological or physical condition.
Skilled nursing care aims to set patients on a path of healing to get back to their daily lives. Many patients return to their homes or older adult communities after healing.
What Is a Skilled Nursing Facility?
As you weigh care options for you or your loved one, it can help to clearly understand what a skilled nursing facility is. A skilled nursing facility is where patients receive care from a registered nurse, most often under the supervision of a doctor. Some hospitals, care homes, and older adult communities offer dedicated skilled nursing facilities.
When appropriate, some patients prefer skilled nursing in-home care. This type of care is also administered by a registered and trained nurse following your doctor’s advice.
What Does a Day in the Life of a Patient Look Like?
When you or your loved one begins a skilled nursing care program at a facility or home, the daily schedule includes medical care, therapy sessions, meal times, and social or rest hours. Your schedule may look something like this:
- Wake up and receive assistance dressing, bathing, and going to the bathroom.
- A nurse administers your medications and medical care.
- Have breakfast with as much or as little nursing care as necessary.
- Attend therapy sessions tailored to your needs.
- Eat lunch and then continue therapy sessions as needed.
- Take time to rest, have dinner, and socialize before bed.
- A nurse assists at bedtime to help you feel comfortable and safe.
From the time you wake up to the time you sleep, you will have the attention of a registered nurse. This type of schedule is also appropriate for patients who require skilled nursing memory care.
How Long Are Patients in Skilled Nursing Care?
Most patients graduate from a skilled nursing facility in three months or less. Some stays can be as short as five days, while other people may need rehabilitative care for a month or more. Your medical needs determine your length of stay.
If you’re caring for someone who may require a more long-term care solution, consider exploring assisted living vs skilled nursing care options. Assisted living facilities offer individualized care while still prioritizing independence. You might consider moving your loved one from a skilled nursing facility to assisted living for long-term care and health benefits.
Elder Care Alliance provides professional skilled nursing in a welcoming and comfortable environment. Schedule a visit today to learn more about our person-centered approach.
