A Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF), sometimes referred to as a nursing home, is a healthcare facility that provides 24-hour skilled nursing care and rehabilitation services for individuals with complex medical needs or those who cannot care for themselves independently.

Key characteristics of a Skilled Nursing Facility include:

1. Skilled Nursing Care: SNFs offer round-the-clock nursing care provided by registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and certified nursing assistants (CNAs). They cater to residents who need assistance with activities of daily living or have medical conditions that require monitoring and management.
2. Rehabilitation Services: SNFs often provide physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy to help residents regain or improve their physical abilities after an illness, surgery, or injury.
3. Long-Term Care: Many residents in SNFs require long-term care due to chronic illnesses, disabilities, or cognitive impairments. SNFs offer assistance with medication management, personal care, and other daily needs.
4. Medical Oversight: These facilities are supervised by physicians or advanced practice nurses who oversee the care plans and medical needs of residents.
5. Amenities and Support Services: SNFs may offer various amenities and support services, including meals, housekeeping, social activities, and specialized care for residents with specific conditions such as dementia.

Skilled Nursing Facilities play a crucial role in providing comprehensive care for individuals who need ongoing medical supervision, assistance with daily activities, and rehabilitative services that cannot be provided in an independent living or assisted living setting.