What it means
Care for health problems that need quick, active treatment, such as in emergency departments, intensive care units, surgery and general hospital units. The goal is to stabilize and treat the client and then move them to home, rehabilitation or long-term care. It differs from long-term care, such as in a nursing homeNUR-sing HOHMA place where people who need daily help and nursing care live, for a short stay or long term.Full entry , and from primary care in a clinic.
At a glance
| Spanish | atención de cuidados agudos |
|---|---|
| Also written | acute-care |
Related terms
intensive care unit
A hospital unit that gives close, constant care to people who are critically ill.
continuity of care
Care that flows smoothly from one provider, shift or setting to the next, without gaps or repeated steps.
nursing home
A place where people who need daily help and nursing care live, for a short stay or long term.