Informed Decisions: Understanding the Difference Between Skilled Nursing and Short Term Rehabilitation
Understanding a loved one’s care options can be overwhelming. Even more so when understanding the differences between skilled nursing and short-term rehabilitation. While the terms are often used interchangeably, it’s important to note that skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) and rehab facilities provide distinct services and different costs.
Simply put, skilled nursing facilities cater to individuals needing more advanced medical attention than what assisted living communities can provide. Rehab facilities offer short-term, in-patient rehabilitation care. The confusion often stems from the fact that skilled nursing facilities are frequently utilized for short-term rehab stays. That’s the gist of it, but let’s explore further.
Skilled Nursing Facility
It’s helpful to know that skilled nursing describes the type of service offered. Skilled nursing is a level of care that must be provided by trained individuals, such as registered nurses (RNs) and physical, speech and occupational therapists.
The need for skilled nursing services doesn’t automatically require placement in a residence, because skilled nursing services are available in a variety of senior care settings, which may include one’s home.
A licensed physician supervises each patient’s care and a nurse or other medical professional is almost always on the premises. Physical and occupational therapists can also be on staff to assist with other residents.
Skilled nursing services may be essential for short-term rehabilitation following illness or injury, or they may be necessary long-term for patients requiring frequent or round-the-clock care due to chronic medical conditions. Examples of skilled nursing services encompass wound care, intravenous (IV) therapy, injections, physical therapy, and the monitoring of vital signs and medical equipment.
Rehabilitation Facility
Short-term rehabilitation serves as a crucial step for patients recovering from surgery, accidents, or illnesses, aiding them in regaining their independence. These facilities are designed for temporary stays rather than permanent residence, allowing patients to return home or transition to options like senior living communities.
Rehab facilities are regulated and certified by the state and federal government. They must also meet certain state and local regulations. Staying at these facilities is covered by Medicare for up to 100 days.
A rehab facility’s staff may include registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, vocational nurses, speech pathologists, physical therapists, audiologists, a medical director, and other specialized medical professionals as needed.
Some of the conditions that may require care at a rehab facility include stroke, surgery, acute illness, infection and general wound care. These conditions may require physical therapy, administration of antibiotics, intravenous injections of medication or other medical care.
Ridge Crest at Meadow Ridge
If you or a loved one needs short-term rehabilitation or long-term health services in or near Redding, Connecticut, you can feel confident knowing Ridge Crest at Meadow Ridge offers the highest quality skilled nursing care. It’s no wonder that Ridge Crest , which maintains an overall 5-Star rating in all categories from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, was recently named one of the top nursing homes in Connecticut by U.S. News & World Report.
Ridge Crest is close to several area hospitals, including Danbury Hospital and Norwalk Hospital, and maintains long-standing connections to ease a patient’s transition. We’ll work with doctors and care teams to provide customized treatment and our beautiful location provides its own special kind of therapeutic treatment.
Ridge Crest accepts direct admissions with no entrance fee for both skilled nursing and rehabilitation. Learn more by calling (203) 544-1000.