A skilled nursing team refers to a group of healthcare professionals who provide skilled nursing care services to patients in a clinical or home setting. These professionals are trained and licensed to provide medical care, assess and monitor patient conditions, and administer treatments and medications as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
The roles and responsibilities of a skilled nursing team can vary depending on patient needs. In a clinical setting, a team may be responsible for managing patient care, coordinating with other healthcare professionals, and providing education to patients and their families. In a home setting, a team may provide in-home care and support, monitor patient progress, and communicate with the patient\’s healthcare provider as needed.
What are Common Roles on a Skilled Nursing Team?
There are many different types of specialized nurses that can comprise a skilled nursing team. Some of the most common specialists include:
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Registered Nurse: An RN is a licensed healthcare professional who is responsible for assessing and managing patient care, developing and implementing care plans, administering medications, monitoring patient progress, and communicating with other healthcare professionals.
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Licensed Practical Nurse: An LPN is a licensed healthcare professional who provides basic nursing care, such as administering medications, wound care, and monitoring vital signs, under the supervision of an RN or healthcare provider.
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Certified Nursing Assistant: A CNA is a healthcare professional who provides direct care to patients, such as assisting with activities of daily living, taking vital signs, and observing and reporting changes in patient conditions.
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Physical Therapist: A physical therapist (PT) is a licensed healthcare professional who specializes in the evaluation and treatment of movement and mobility disorders, such as injuries, disabilities, or illnesses.
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Occupational Therapist: An occupational therapist (OT) is a licensed healthcare professional who specializes in the evaluation and treatment of activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and eating, to help patients regain their independence and improve their quality of life.
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Speech-Language Pathologist: An SLP is a licensed healthcare professional who specializes in the evaluation and treatment of speech, language, and swallowing disorders, such as communication problems or difficulties with eating and swallowing.
These healthcare professionals work collaboratively to provide high-quality and comprehensive care to patients with complex medical needs.
Does Hospice Care Involve a Skilled Nursing Team?
Hospice care usually involves a skilled nursing team to provide care for patients with life-limiting illnesses. The skilled nursing teams for hospice care may include registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, certified nursing assistants, and other healthcare professionals, like social workers, chaplains, and volunteers.
Skilled nursing team work together to provide comprehensive care to manage pain and other symptoms, address emotional and spiritual needs, and support patients and their families through the end-of-life process. They work closely with the patient\’s healthcare provider to ensure that the care plan is individualized and meets the patient\’s needs and preferences.
Hospice care is designed to provide comfort and support to patients with life-limiting illnesses, focusing on improving quality of life rather than curing the illness. Skilled nursing teams play a critical role in delivering this care and ensuring that patients receive the necessary support and care to maintain their comfort and dignity.
Charlin Hospice Services
At Charlin Health Services, we pride ourselves on honor, integrity, excellence, compassion, dignity, and trust. Our Interdisciplinary Hospice Team functions as a family unit to assist each patient and their loved ones during this journey of life. Each member of any Charlin Hospice team can be reached anytime seven days a week.
If you have any needs or questions about hospice care, health services, or other medical needs, please send us an email or give us a call.