Celebrating Nurses in Skilled Nursing Homes and Assisted Living

Families are often in the middle of a health crisis with their aging loved one when they have to sort out the difference between the care offered at skilled nursing homes and assisted living communities.  Skilled nursing facilities are commonly referred to as nursing homes and are licensed healthcare facilities that are inspected and regulated by the state’s Department of Public Health and have nurses on staff 24-hours each day. Long and short-term care is available for those who need rehabilitation services or suffer from serious or persistent health issues that are too complicated to be tended to at assisted living.

Many assisted living communities have nurses on-site during business hours and on-call at other times.  The residents in assisted living generally receive help with meal preparation, personal care and medication.  These communities are also regulated and inspected by their state’s Department of Public Health but have regulations different from those that govern skilled nursing homes.

When is Skilled Nursing Care Needed?

Generally those in skilled nursing communities are in need of around-the clock nursing care and supervision; requiring more than just assistance with meals, personal hygiene and medications because of complex physical needs which can no longer by met by a family member or caregiver.

The care provided in skilled nursing facilities is provided by nurses and certified nursing assistants.  They become like family to the residents, caring for them at a most critical time in their lives. Nurses go above and beyond to make sure residents are not only cared for, but feel comfortable and are as happy as can be.

Regardless of whether they work in a nursing home or an assisted living community, nurses play an important role in setting the tone in a community; creating a positive environment while providing health care to their patients. They work long hours and are responsible for medications, personal assistance, as well as being a communicator for families and loved ones.  We couldn’t manage without our nurses!

What People are Saying about Skilled Nursing Care

At Bishop Wicke Health Center here are some comments our residents have said about their nurses…

“I am surrounded by loving and caring nurses, aids, dietary and housekeeping staff. There is no reason not to be happy!”

Resident, Bishop Wicke Health and Rehabilitation Center

“Everyone at Bishop Wicke Rehab center has been very good in helping me to recover after my total knee replacement surgery. The physical and occupational therapists are excellent and have helped me greatly. They are very caring and have given me emotional as well as instructional support on my road to recovery.”

Short-term Resident, Bishop Wicke Health and Rehabilitation Center

“My mother has been delighted to move to Bishop Wicke. For the first time she has developed close bonds and friendships. Everyone here has been so caring and friendly; both to mom and our family. We couldn't be happier with her care. I can feel relieved knowing how well taken care of she is.”

Family, Bishop Wicke Health and Rehabilitation Center

National Nurses Week

May 6-12, 2013 is National Nurses Week, developed by the American Nurses Association to help celebrate nurses and all they do. At United Methodist Homes we want to acknowledge our nursing staff for all the love and care they provide. They are the reason we have healthy, friendly, happy communities that our resident’s and their families can be proud of.  Be sure to take the time to say “Thank you!” to the nurses in your life!

Learn More

If you are in need of short or long term skilled nursing care, contact Bishop Wicke Health Care Center and learn how we can assist you. For information on the nursing services provided at our assisted living communities, please contact one of our communities.