Glossary
Nasogastric tube (NG Tube)
A tube that passes through a patient's nose and throat and ends in the stomach. This tube allows for direct "tube feeding" to maintain the nutritional status of the patient or removal of stomach acids.
Nonprofit/Not-For-Profit
Tax status designating an organization that reinvests all profits back into that its operations. About one-third of nursing homes in the United States are nonprofits.
Nurse
An individual trained to care for the sick, aged or injured. A professional qualified by education and authorized by law to practice nursing.
Nurse Practitioner (NP)
A registered nurse working in an expanded nursing role, usually with a focus on meeting primary healthcare needs. NPs can conduct physical examinations, interpret laboratory results, select plans of treatment and identify medication requirements. They also can perform certain medical management activities for selected health conditions. Some NPs specialize in geriatric care.
Nurse, Licensed Practical (LPN)
A graduate of a state-approved practical nursing education program who has passed a state examination and been licensed to provide nursing and personal care under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician. LPNs commonly administer medications and treatment and acts as a charge nurse in nursing facilities.
Nurse, Registered (RN)
A nurse who has graduated from a formal program of nursing education (two-year associate degree, three-year hospital diploma, or four-year baccalaureate) and passed a state-administered exam. RNs have completed more formal training than licensed practical nurses and have a wide scope of responsibility.
Nursing facility (NF)
Nursing facilities are licensed to provide custodial care; rehabilitative care such as physical, occupational or speech therapy; or specialized care for Alzheimer's patients. Additionally, nursing facilities offer residents planned social, recreational and spiritual activities.
Nursing home
A facility licensed by the state to offer residents personal care, as well as skilled nursing care on a 24-hour-a-day basis. Provides nursing care, personal care, room and board, supervision, medication, therapies and rehabilitation. Rooms are often shared, and communal dining is common. Depending upon the jurisdiction, these facilities may be licensed as nursing homes, county homes, or nursing homes/residential care facilities.
Nursing home care
Full-time care delivered in a facility designed for recovery from a hospital stay, complex treatment, or assistance with common daily activities.
