Subacute refers to a medical condition or care that is between acute and chronic in character, with a rather recent onset or somewhat rapid change. Here are some key points about subacute:

• Medical Definition: Subacute is a term used to describe a condition that is not as sudden as acute but not as long-lasting as chronic.

• Characteristics: Subacute conditions are characterized by a tapered but not sharply pointed form, falling between acute and chronic in character, especially when closer to acute.

• Subacute Care: Subacute care is a medical care setting where patients require more complex, round-the-clock care than what is provided in a skilled nursing facility, but do not require hospital acute care. It is given as part of a specifically defined program, regardless of the site, and requires the coordinated services of an interdisciplinary team including physicians, nurses, and other relevant professional disciplines.

• Examples: Examples of subacute conditions include subacute endocarditis, subacute pain, and subacute inflammation of the digestive apparatus.

In summary, subacute refers to a medical condition or care that is between acute and chronic in character, with a rather recent onset or somewhat rapid change. Subacute care is a medical care setting where patients require more complex, round-the-clock care than what is provided in a skilled nursing facility, but do not require hospital acute care.