Is there a provision for Medicare to cover nursing home costs while a caregiver has surgery?

I am caring for my elderly mother in my home. I have developed severe Osteoarthritis and will be needing both knees and a hip replacement at various points in the near future. My GP seemed to think Medicare would cover her stay at a nursing home under those conditions. When I talked to the administrator at our local nursing home, she said no. Anyone go through this, or an emergency medical situation where there was no other option but to have their elder stay at a care facility? Was there help from Medicare? Thanks!