A nursing home is a location providing skilled care to people who are deficient
in taking care of themselves on a daily basis. These people may be older or young
adults, they may be deficient on a physical or emotional basis, may have long term
illnesses or functional disabilities. Anyone 18 years or older may stay at a nursing
home if they qualify for nursing home care. The main employees of nursing homes
are nurses and certified nursing aides. Ancillary staff can include speech, physical,
respiratory and occupational therapists, social workers and staff who assist with
recreational activities.
National requirements for nursing homes are employing a licensed nurse 24 hours
a day, whether a licensed practical nurse or registered nurse. A registered nurse
must be working at least one shift per day within those 24 hours.
