Christine
Sharing the Joy of a Visit
Christine is a patient recovering at Kindred Hospital St. Louis.
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Due to the strict visitation restrictions in place because of the coronavirus pandemic she hadn’t been able to see any family or friends since she was hospitalized, until recently when the facility receptionist and patient representative helped organize a “through the glass” meeting in the lobby of the hospital. “It is very touching to be able to create an opportunity like this for our patients and their loved ones,” said Kevin Shrake, CEO. “Although there is no physical contact, it definitely helps with healing and recovery when a patient and their loved ones are able to see each other and share the joy of a visit, even if it’s through glass.”
Davoris
A Long Road to Recovery
Davoris was admitted to Kindred Hospital on full ventilator support with a tracheostomy due to acute respiratory failure after having abdominal surgery. She was extremely weak and suffered from an excess of fluid in her blood and acute kidney failure.
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Her condition was further complicated by morbid obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and a post-surgical abdominal abscess.
Upon admission, Davoris was immediately placed on daily ventilator weaning protocol. Her team of respiratory, speech, physical and occupational therapists and nurses worked together to help Davoris regain her strength and towards the goal of weaning her from the ventilator and removing the tracheostomy tube.
At first she made slow progress with weaning, however through therapy and diuresis she was able to lose over 100lbs and progress to high humidity tracheostomy collar. After downsizing her breathing tube, Davoris was able to begin speaking and eat a regular diet. Soon afterwards she progressed to completely weaning from the ventilator and breathing with only a nasal cannula. Two weeks later the tracheostomy was completely removed.
As her strength increased, Davoris was able to begin sitting up, standing and transferring to a chair with assistance. She progressed to being able to walk with a walker and was able to complete her bathing and dressing with minimal assistance, gaining more independence each day.
It was through commitment, teamwork and the caring and competent staff - along with strong family support - that Davoris was able to transfer from Kindred to a rehab facility to continue her journey to recovery. All of us wish Davoris all the best and hope she is able to complete regain her health and quality of life!
Ms. H
Determined to Regain Her Independence
Ms. H arrived at Kindred Hospital on full ventilator support as she was suffering from severe respiratory failure. Her medical condition was complex, she was unable to eat or speak, and was totally dependent on staff assistance to help her with even the simplest of tasks.
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As part of her course of treatment with the goal to wean her from the ventilator, her Respiratory Therapists used specialized lung therapy techniques, including breathing exercises and cough maneuvers. Everyone who cared for her provided daily support and encouragement for Ms. H to achieve her next milestone.
Ms. H was successfully weaned off the ventilator after only nine days, and the next treatment goal – to strengthen her voice and improve her swallowing – was achieved through a daily routine using the Passy-Muir speaking valve. In just a matter of days, Ms. H was speaking, swallowing without complications and eating a regular diet.
Her team also worked diligently to help her regain her strength and mobility. Her daily routine of physical and occupational therapies was successful as she was able to begin walking with a walker. As she got stronger and gained confidence in her abilities, she progressed to showering, grooming, and dressing herself independently. Before she was released, Ms. H was able to have her tracheostomy tube completely removed.
Ms. H’s hard work and determination, coupled with the great teamwork, care and compassion of the Kindred Hospital staff restored her ability to care for herself as she moves on to the next step of her journey to recovery.