Deborah lived with stage 3 chronic kidney disease along with several other conditions. After a procedure to treat kidney stones, she suffered shortness of breath requiring oxygen support.  She was transferred to Kindred Hospital Houston Northwest where she worked with her respiratory, physical, and occupational therapists to recover. 

From Kindred Hospital Houston Northwest

Prior to her hospitalization, Deborah lived independently and actively managed her health, despite her medical history of hypertension, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage 3, and bilateral nephrolithiasis. However, after undergoing a lithotripsy procedure to treat kidney stones, she began experiencing progressive shortness of breath that required immediate medical attention.

Deborah was admitted to Kindred Hospital Northwest for extended medical care and support. Upon admission, she required high-flow oxygen to stabilize her breathing and address her respiratory distress. A multidisciplinary care team, including physical therapists, respiratory therapists, and rehabilitation specialists, developed a personalized care plan to address her complex needs. Respiratory therapy played a pivotal role in Deborah’s recovery. The team worked to optimize her lung function and gradually wean her from high-flow oxygen. Through consistent respiratory exercises and support, Deborah’s breathing improved significantly, enabling her to participate more actively in rehabilitation activities.

Physical therapy (PT) was an integral part of Deborah’s care plan. The PT team used advanced rehabilitation exercise equipment to help her rebuild strength and endurance. Deborah engaged in various exercises utilizing treadmills, stationary bikes, and resistance training machines, which were instrumental in enhancing her cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength. Specialized equipment, such as parallel bars and balance trainers, was also used to improve her stability and mobility, allowing her to safely transition from bed to walking with confidence. These tools provided tailored support to address specific areas of weakness and helped Deborah regain her independence.

Thanks to the collaborative efforts of her care team, Deborah achieved remarkable progress. She met and exceeded all her care plan goals, regaining the ability to perform activities of daily living and improving her overall physical and respiratory health. Her determination and the unwavering support of the staff enabled her to transition to a lower level of care, where she continues her journey toward full recovery. From the entire staff at Kindred, we wish her all the success in her recovery.