Firstly, when something requires skilled nursing services, that means the services must be administered by a licensed practical nurse or registered nurse.
There are several examples of nursing services for patients set forth in Florida law. Nursing services described in Florida law include intravenous medication; subcutaneous injection required at least 5 times weekly (not including insulin); management of medication regime on a daily basis for drugs with variable doses or with severe side effects; Levin tube and gastrostomy feedings; administration of medical gases; naso-pharyngeal and tracheotomy aspiration (excluding self-care residents); insertion, replacement, or sterilization of qualifying catheters; qualifying colostomy and ileostomy care; treatment of qualifying decubitus ulcers; treatment of widespread or infected skin disorders; daily qualifying dressings when medication application is required; prescribed daily heat treatments; and daily rehabilitation nursing procedures.
Each of these skilled services that are considered nursing services are described in more significant detail in the Florida Administrative Code. You can read Florida Administrative Code 59G-4.290 Skilled Services here.
You may also want to review what is considered skilled rehabilitative services. Skilled rehabilitative services are also described in Florida Administrative code 59G-4.290.
Knowing what are nursing services are very important in the ALF setting. Allowed nursing services must be performed by a registered nurse. Even with a Nurse certain treatments are not allowed under ALF regulations. Make sure you are familiar with Florida’s ALF regulations.This can help you ensure your facility is abiding by all regulations and providing the best environment possible.
The parameters under which patients require skilled nursing services are thoroughly described in the Florida Administrative Code and are described succinctly and clearly. After a quick review, you can be on your way to confirm your ALF is following all aspects of Florida law.