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About Nursing Homes

Nursing homes offer the very highest levels of care for individuals with complex health and support needs. They are very similar to residential care homes in many ways, the main difference being that a nursing home has a Registered Nurse on site 24 hours a day who is supported by a team of care staff.

Individuals who require nursing support are often assessed as such by either a Social Worker or a member of the hospital staff, e.g., a Discharge Nurse. Typically, those with nursing needs tend to either have very limited or no mobility, may require medication to be administered, or have open wounds that require dressing.

Everyone who is assessed as needing nursing care will be eligible for some level of funding support from the NHS, details of which can be found in our Help & Advice section or the articles below. If you are unsure if you would qualify for funding, it is best to contact your local Adult Social Care team to discuss the specifics of your situation.

Care Quality Commission

The part of the Country you are based in will depend on who regulates and monitors the nursing homes near you. In England, the regulator of nursing homes is the Care Quality Commission (CQC). They are responsible for setting the operational framework in which all social care services must work. In addition to monitoring nursing homes, the CQC monitors hospitals, GP practices, ambulance services, care homes, and home care services, to name a few.

In Scotland, the regulator of care services is the Care Inspectorate, and in Wales, it is the Care Inspectorate Wales. Both organisations operate in the same way as the CQC, with some regional differences. Their role is to set the framework in which nursing homes operate and ensure that they adhere to the guidelines for the safety and well-being of their residents.

If you are looking for further advice or guidance on nursing care, please view some of our useful articles below or contact one of our specialist Care Advisers.

Types of Nursing Homes

Nursing homes provide round-the-clock care for individuals with complex health conditions. However, not all nursing homes are created equal. They can vary significantly in terms of the specific types of care they offer and their ownership structure.

Dementia Care Nursing Homes - These homes are specifically designed to meet the unique needs of individuals with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. They offer specialised programs and activities to promote cognitive stimulation, memory care, and emotional well-being in a secure and supportive environment.

Nursing Homes for Physical Disabilities - If your loved one has a physical disability such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, or a spinal cord injury, these homes offer specialised care and rehabilitation services to help them maintain their independence and quality of life.

Post-Operative Recovery Nursing Homes - Following surgery, some individuals require a period of rehabilitation and skilled nursing care. These homes provide short-term care focused on recovery, pain management, and regaining strength and mobility.

Hospice Care within Nursing Homes - Some nursing homes offer palliative care and hospice services to provide comfort, dignity, and support to individuals with terminal illnesses during their final stages of life.

How Nursing Homes Provide 24/7 Care

Registered nurses are available 24/7 to provide comprehensive medical care, including:

Medication Management - Accurate and timely administration of medications, including injections and intravenous therapies.

Wound Care - Professional dressing and treatment of wounds to promote healing and prevent infections.

Pain Management - Development and implementation of personalized pain management plans to ensure comfort and well-being.

Assistance with Daily Living - Support with bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and other essential daily tasks.