I’m seeing a common translation error: using the same Spanish translation for “nursing home” and “skilled nursing facility.” While these terms are sometimes used interchangeably in English, they are not synonymous.
A “nursing home,” often translated as “convalescence center,” is a residential facility, typically for senior citizens. This is a place where individuals who need assistance with “activities of daily living” (e.g., dressing, eating, bathing) can live in a community environment. Nursing aides are usually on staff 24 hours a day.
A “skilled nursing facility,” often pronounced “sniff” (to reflect the initials SNF), is a setting with more advanced care available. This may be a transitional setting after an accident or injury – from hospital to home – where individuals can receive physical therapy, IV medications, and other care from Registered Nurses and other healthcare professionals (e.g., occupational therapists). The concept for translation is a “facility with skilled care by nurses.”
Please share your solutions for translating either of these two terms (in any language) in the comments for this forum!
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