How many hours of direct nursing care are required for each resident in 24 hours?

In Pennsylvania, regulations specify that nursing homes must provide a minimum of 3.2 hours of direct nursing care for each resident within a 24-hour period. This requirement is based on the recognition that adequate nursing care is critical for the well-being and health of residents, particularly as they may have varying levels of need for medical and personal care.

This standard is established to ensure that each resident receives sufficient attention and medical assistance to meet their individual care needs. The goal is to provide quality care that promotes resident safety, comfort, and overall quality of life. By mandating 3.2 hours of direct care, regulations aim to prevent understaffing issues that could lead to inadequate patient care and potential neglect.

Understanding this requirement is crucial for nursing home administrators as it helps them plan staffing levels, ensure compliance with state regulations, and maintain high standards of resident care.