A “Swing Bed Unit” — a Medicare skilled nursing facility — provides a stable, therapeutic environment in which patients can recover over a short-term period and post hospitalization short-term rehabilitation. Admissions to the unit include patients, who demonstrate a high rehabilitation potential and can usually be discharged within 21 days or less.

The staff provides treatment services in a structured, therapeutic environment. These services — which include daily nursing care by registered nurses and rehabilitative therapy — facilitate the recovery and return of each patient back to their home environment. The units provide Medicare-certified services and will work with patients who have private insurance to ensure third-party payment for services provided.

Patients may be able to participate in the program if their medical needs cannot be met at home or in a long-term care facility, but their condition no longer requires a stay in an acute care setting.

Goal setting
Once you’ve arrived, a care coordinator works with you and your family to set treatment goals. Your care team will meet weekly to review your progress. You, your family, the referring physician, case manager and insurance company receive reports on your progress.

What to bring
Pack comfortable clothing to wear each day. Swing Bed does not have laundry facilities. Plan to bring or have your family provide you with clean clothes throughout your stay.

Packing checklist:

• Comfortable, Supportive Shoes
• Lightweight, Loose Fitting Clothing (a five-day supply to start)
• Personal Care Items (such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo)
• Personal Photos (or other items to decorate your room to provide comfort and familiarity)
• Sleepwear

We encourage you to personalize your room, but please know that we cannot assume the responsibility for loss or theft of items. Valuable items such as jewelry or money should be left at home.

For family members
We encourage family and friends visit loved ones and take an active role in your recovery. Also, family members can help by:

• Assisting the patient and care team to decide the timing and transition back home, after participating in the Swing Bed Program.
• Participating in the family education and training sessions.
• Providing emotional support and encouragement.
• Providing the care team with insight into the patient’s personality, interests and lifestyle.

Completing the program
The length of time a patient stays with the Swing Bed Program depends on his or her individual needs. Additionally, some patients are able to return home and others may need to explore additional care options after leaving. The care team can help by providing recommendations and alternatives for future care when necessary.

View our brochure on McLeod Swing Bed Program.