520
Detailed Needs and Requirements: Nursing Home Care Unit
526
NURSING HOME CARE UNIT
526.1
USER NEEDS
These units function in a manner similar to a general medical and surgical
unit with the exception that a high percentage of patients are ambulant,
the level of sustaining medical care is less and the length of stay is
greater.
526.1.1
Objectives
Nursing home care facilities in V.A. hospitals treat patients, who require a
substantial level of nursing support, will probably be hospitalized for six
months or more and whose activities will be confined primarily to the
nursing unit.
The major mission of the nursing home care unit is to restore maximum
physical and psychological patient functions.
526.1.2
Operational Relationships
The nursing home care units related to other hospital functions in a non-
exacting way; that is, there are no relationships which require specific
contiguity to a particular supply and distribution system or other nursing
units. Patients leaving the unit for treatment or recreation will be ambulant
and able to proceed without escort. Supplies are of non-critical nature and
can be distributed through normal hospital procedures. Patient care
programs would benefit, however, from a close proximity to outdoor
recreational areas.
526.1.3
Characteristics
1. Environment
The general environment of the unit should be cheerful and open with
natural light in social spaces and corridors, if possible. Walking
surfaces should provide secure footing. Glare or other disorienting
features should be avoided.
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