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Avera Queen of Peace Swing Bed Services

Swing Bed Program

The Swing Bed Program is a federally-approved program for small rural hospitals. The Swing Bed Program is designed to be temporary with discharge options being explored as an ongoing process by your family, physician, and social worker.

Skilled Nursing Care

Avera Queen of Peace Hospital provides only skilled nursing care for Swing Bed patients. Skilled nursing care is normally provided in a skilled nursing facility that is licensed by the South Dakota State Department of Health. A skilled nursing facility provides 24-hour, skilled nursing care and services for patients who require medically supervised nursing care on a continuous basis, but do not require the level of intensive care furnished in an acute care hospital. Examples of patients qualifying for this level include people needing continuous IV therapy or IV medications, major sterile dressing changes, regulation of insulin (adjusting dosages), rehabilitation services, and several selected procedures.

Payment

  • Admission to skilled Swing Bed must be preceded by an acute hospital stay of at least three days, within the last 30 days and a current skilled admission review to determine if skilled care is appropriate.
  • Please refer to your Medicare Handbook for additional information concerning coverage.
  • Any patient covered by government programs, Title XVIII, Title XIX, etc., will be billed for the balance after coverage is determined or payment received. Full payment is due within 10 days. The bill for government payment will be submitted in accordance with federal regulations.
  • The patient shall be charged for the day of admission and not for the day of discharge.

Personal Belongings

If they desire, Swing Bed patients may wear street clothes during the day, as their condition allows. The family must be aware that any personal belongings brought to the hospital or removed from the patient’s room are the responsibility of the patient/family. Please notify the nurse regarding items brought in or taken home.

Activities

Planned activities are provided under the direction of an Activity Coordinator/Director. Planned activities for Swing Bed patients are provided on a one-to-one basis, as you are able. A program of activities and exercises that may help you return to your home is encouraged. You will have opportunities to practice daily skills, such as eating, personal hygiene, grooming, dressing, or household tasks using new methods or special devices. We encourage the family to bring in activities that interest you, such as games, books, hobbies, etc.

Dental Care

Avera Queen of Peace Hospital has contracted with local dentists to provide any dental care needed. However, if you prefer, arrangements may be made with your own dentist. Please contact the nursing staff for a list of dentists available to provide treatment.