What distinguishes skilled nursing care from other types of nursing care?

Skilled nursing care is characterized by the provision of medical monitoring and the services of licensed staff, such as registered nurses and licensed practical nurses. This type of care encompasses the administration of prescribed medical treatments, management of complex medical needs, and support with activities of daily living that require professional oversight. It is typically delivered in settings like skilled nursing facilities or rehabilitation centers, where the focus is on both recovery from acute conditions and management of chronic medical issues.

This distinction sets skilled nursing care apart from other forms of nursing care, which may not require such a high level of medical assistance or licensed staff involvement. For instance, custodial care or personal care may be provided by unlicensed individuals and may not include the same level of medical monitoring and interventions. Thus, the emphasis on medical oversight and the involvement of licensed healthcare professionals firmly distinguishes skilled nursing care from other nursing care types.