Home Health Care Glossary

This glossary is to help our home health care community better understand the terms used in relation to care. Please book mark this page for future reference or download our printable version HERE.



National Association for Home Care & Hospice (NAHC) The NAHC is the nation's largest trade association representing the interests and concerns of home health care agencies, hospices, and home health care aide organizations.
National Committee on Quality Assurance (NCQA) The NCQA is an independent national organization that reviews and accredits managed care plans and measures the quality of care offered by managed care plans.
Nasogastric tube (NG Tube) An NG tube passes through the nose into the stomach. This tube is used for drainage of the stomach contents or for administering feedings.
Non-ambulatory This refers to the condition of a person who is unable to move or walk around. If someone is non-ambulatory, they are usually required to be bedridden or hospitalized.
Nurse Aide (also known as home health aide) A nurse aide is a health care professional who provides personal care including assistance with walking, bathing, dressing, and meal preparation.
Nursing home A nursing home is a facility that provides long-term care for seniors with considerable assistance needs. These services include medical, nursing, personal and social care, as well as assistance with activities of daily living.
Nurse practitioner An NP is a specialist who provides primary and/or specialty care to patients or clients. In some states, nurse practitioners do not have to be supervised by a doctor.