Which of the following best describes 'intermediate care'?

Intermediate care is characterized by the provision of assistance that requires skilled nursing services on an intermittent basis. This means that individuals receiving intermediate care do not require round-the-clock nursing care, as would be the case in a full-time skilled nursing facility or a hospital. Instead, they receive periodic monitoring and care that is needed for the management of specific health conditions that may not be as acute as those requiring immediate or continuous care.

This type of care typically suits individuals who are stable but may still need support to maintain their health or to recover from a condition. These care requirements can often be met in various settings, including home health care or specialized facilities, rather than exclusively in a hospital or acute care setting.

In contrast, the other options mention different types of care scenarios that do not align with the definition of intermediate care. For instance, care for acute illnesses or that provided in a hospital setting usually demands more intensive, continuous care that goes beyond what is classified as intermediate. Similarly, continuous care for chronic conditions indicates a level of ongoing, stable care which does not reflect the intermittent nature of intermediate care.