Swing Bed:

Personalized Care, Close to Home

If you or your loved one need short-term, skilled health care services, Columbus Community Hospital’s Swing Bed program is here to help. The program is meant for qualifying patients who are discharged from the hospital yet have a continued need for medical care.

Our Swing Bed Unit is made up of five beds located on the third floor of the hospital. If these five beds are full, the hospital has the capability to accommodate additional patients on the second floor. Regardless of location, patients admitted into the Swing Bed program are offered around-the-clock assistance from skilled nurses and physicians. This includes activities, group meals and therapy.

The unit offers a very quiet and peaceful environment to allow patients to get the rest they need to recover and return home.

The Swing Bed program is available to qualifying patients, typically those who have completed a three-night inpatient stay. These patients no longer qualify for acute care services but are often not ready to return home. The program provides care for patients who may have undergone surgery, experienced trauma, had an acute illness, require a wound vac, or extended IV therapy. Patients may also qualify for the program due to a new diagnosis or medical condition that requires additional education. Medicare, Medicare Advantage and additional health insurance plans are accepted on a case by case basis.

Patients admitted to the program usually stay an average of 14 days or less. Extended stays may be allowed under certain circumstances. The Swing Bed program includes 24-hour registered nursing coverage with a minimum of one RN and one nurse aid available at all times. A physician is also available to follow patients in their recovery. Throughout a patient’s stay, these medical professionals work together to provide and execute an individualized care plan for each patient. They are able to perform lab draws and diagnostic testing without leaving the hospital, as well as administer IV fluids, antibiotics, and blood products if needed.

In addition to this specialized care, a wide array of rehabilitative services is also available for patients. Occupational, physical and speech therapy are offered by seasoned experts. Patients can expect to work with the same therapists throughout their recovery process. All patients must be willing and able to participate in therapy.

Physical therapy is offered as many as seven days a week, if needed. Occupational therapists are also on hand to help patients build strength by cooking, doing laundry and working on bathing skills. These therapists may also conduct a home safety assessment prior to discharge, if needed. This assessment ensures that patients’ homes are safe and ready for their return.

The goal of the Swing Bed program is to provide patients with the best therapy and nursing care in the shortest time possible. The intention is to get patients feeling better so they can return to their permanent living situation as soon as possible.

To find out more about our Swing Bed program, call 402-562-3310.