One. What would you highlight as the defining characteristics of a nursing home facility? Some would argue that the negative public image is—unfortunately—one of those characteristics, as problematic situations occurred far more often there than with other health providers. Outline the history of the damage done to the public perception of nursing facilities as presented in the textbook.

Two. Regarding the philosophy of care, nursing facilities have provided two classes/categories (varieties) of services. What are they and what do they each consist of? How are these two categories both necessary and problematic for nursing home residents/patients? How does the medical vs. social model of care correspond to these two service categories, and how does this delivery of both distinguish the nursing long term care facility from other health providers?

Three. Provide an overview of the 8 (approximate) special care units that serve a unique patient population demographic. Can you provide an example beyond what is listed here of another one you either know of OR believe should exist with the long-term care service framework?

Four. Briefly summarize the influence of regulations on nursing facilities in LTC (at the facility level; resident/patient level; employee level; and physical plant/building construction level). Additionally, what does your textbook say regarding the influence of excessive regulation and inspection processes on long term care providers/caregivers?