What type of care is essential in long-term care facilities?

In long-term care facilities, 24-hour skilled nursing care is essential because residents often require ongoing medical attention and support with daily activities due to chronic illnesses, disabilities, or recovery needs. This type of care ensures that trained nursing staff are available at all times to monitor health conditions, administer medications, assist with activities of daily living, and respond to emergencies. Having skilled nursing support helps to maintain the quality of life for residents by providing comprehensive care tailored to their individual health conditions and needs.

While other types of care, such as short-term rehabilitation or palliative care, can be important, they are not the primary focus of long-term care facilities. Ambulatory services usually provide care for individuals who are not bedridden and may not require the intensive 24-hour support that long-term care residents need. Thus, the presence of skilled nursing around the clock is a fundamental aspect of ensuring that the complex and varied needs of individuals in long-term care facilities are met effectively.