Caregivers, loved ones, families, and patients can have lots of questions when it comes to short-stay rehabilitation and inpatient services.
There are many different facilities and communities that provide assistance, and not all places do things the same way. Some communities offer a broad spectrum of services while others are more refined in their scope.
Here are a few of the more commonly asked questions we get at the Bridge Care Suites:
What is short-stay rehabilitation?
Short-stay rehabilitation is an inpatient rehabilitation and recovery facility where 24/7 care is provided. Short-stay facilities serve to help those recover from surgery, illness, or accidents. Bridge Care Suites offers a broad range of services: on-site physical and occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, and skilled nursing services.
How long does short-stay rehabilitation last?
The length of each guest’s stay is subject to their recovery progress. Guests can stay anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Surgeries involving tendons and ligaments tend to take longer to recover from than bone or joint procedures.
Is a skilled nursing short-stay rehabilitation facility the same as a nursing home?
No, skilled nursing at a short-stay rehabilitation facility is not the same as a nursing home. Nursing homes tend to center around long-term care, which averages approximately one to three years. Short-stay facilities are designed around the end goal of each guest to return home. However, long-term facilities, such as a nursing home, cater to the needs of people who are chronically ill in an effort to preserve their quality of life.
Does medicare cover short-stay rehabilitation?
For eligible seniors, Medicare does cover short-stay rehabilitation. It is recommended to check your policy for eligibility requirements and specific coverage details. The admissions staff at Bridge Care Suites will help navigate the ins and outs of your policy and options.
Which rehabilitation services are available?
Bridge Care Suites provides guests with a broad spectrum of rehabilitative services. Some general services offered are physical and occupational therapy, wound care, and skilled nursing. Other services include stroke and ostomy care and respite care. Bridge Care Suites provides hospice care to patients so they may remain comfortable during their last moments and release the family of caregiving responsibilities so they may focus attention on each other and be together during their time of loss.
Who decides on the type of care and therapy a patient receives?
Each patient has a treatment plan that is decided upon between their primary care physician and surgeon and the medical professionals at Bridge Care Suites. If adjustments need to be made to a guest’s treatment plan, BCS will be in contact with their doctor to make changes together.
Is Bridge Care Suites required to be Joint Commission Accredited?
No, BCS pursued Joint Commission Accreditation of its own volition to be more equipped to serve each guest under the highest quality safety and medical standards in the United States. The Joint Commission provides 70 years of expertise to accredited organizations through multiple means of support, access to professional medical advice, and continuing education.
Can family or friends visit me while at a short-stay rehabilitation facility?
Absolutely. There will be daily allotted visitation times that family and friends need to follow. BCS offers space for visiting or to grab a drink and snack in the on-site cafe.
What is the rooming situation?
You have the option to choose between a private or semi-private room. Private rooms have 178 square feet of living space, while semi-private have 288 square feet. Both private and semi-private rooms are furnished with televisions, storage, and individual heating and cooling units, as well as their own private bathrooms. BCS provides daily housekeeping, linen, and laundry services, to help keep everything fresh and clean.
Who needs or benefits from short-stay rehabilitation?
Anyone recovering from surgery, an accident, or illness can benefit from inpatient short-stay rehabilitation, especially if they require skilled nursing. Other circumstances to consider are the availability of caregivers or those you live with and their availability to provide the care needed during your recovery.
What is the meal situation? What if I have dietary restrictions? What if I get hungry or thirsty between meals?
Bridge Care Suites provides three complete courses to guests. Meals are served in the dining area, but the option is available if you prefer to eat in your room. If you have any dietary restrictions or needs, be sure to discuss them during the admission process. If you’re feeling hungry between meals, a cafe offers delicious treats and beverages.
What is the purpose of a short-stay rehabilitation facility?
A short-stay rehabilitation facility aims to help you attain maximum functional mobility. The transition between hospital and returning home can create feelings of unease. Bridge Care Suites aims to smooth this process and give you the confidence to return home and to your most loved activities.
What should I expect out of my stay?
Bridge Care Suites provides an environment that allows you to focus on your recovery. Therapy will begin the day you arrive. The nursing staff is available 24/7 to assist you with all your needs. All staff, including therapists, are hired directly by BCS to ensure you receive the highest quality care. The medical team will work with you to set and achieve goals to make the return home smooth.
What is skilled nursing?
Skilled nursing is the care provided by licensed medical professionals – nurses, physicians, social workers, dietitians, and others. The care provided cannot be given by people who are not trained in the medical field. It often includes wound care, intravenous therapies or injections, medication management, rehabilitative therapies, and more.
Can I still see my primary care physician or surgeon during my stay?
Yes, you certainly can. If you need post-operative appointments or to see your physician for any reason, Bridge Care Suites will arrange the appointment for you. To make things easier, BCS offers complimentary transportation service to bring you to and from your appointment.
What kind of clothing should I bring?
Clothing should be comfortable to wear. With that said, you will want loose clothing and allows for easy removal around your surgical site. Tennis shoes are suggested for physical therapy and exercise.
It is important that you ask questions and receive all the answers you are seeking before making an important decision. While these frequently asked questions may be informative, you might have other inquiries that are more pointed toward your loved one’s specific needs. We’re always here to answer any questions you may have.
