South Carolina Life and Health Practice Exam

What is the term for continuous 24-hour care provided by licensed medical professionals under the supervision of a physician?

1. Home health care

2. Skilled nursing care

3. Respite care

4. Assisted living care

The correct answer is: Skilled nursing care

The term for continuous 24-hour care provided by licensed medical professionals under the supervision of a physician is skilled nursing care. This type of care is typically delivered in a facility or specialized environment where patients receive comprehensive medical attention, monitoring, and assistance with daily activities from trained healthcare personnel. This level of care is crucial for individuals with complex health needs, post-surgery recovery, or chronic illnesses requiring constant monitoring and treatment. Skilled nursing care differs from other forms of care, such as home health care, which may not always involve round-the-clock medical supervision and can include assistance with daily living activities by aides or therapists in a patient's home. Respite care refers to temporary relief for primary caregivers, allowing them to take a break while ensuring that the patients receive adequate care, but it does not imply continuous care. Assisted living care, on the other hand, provides support for daily living in a communal setting but typically does not include extensive medical care supervised by a physician. Thus, skilled nursing care is specifically designated for situations requiring comprehensive and ongoing medical assistance, aligning perfectly with the requirements outlined in the question.