Dolores's Success Story
After experiencing severe abdominal pain, Dolores was diagonosed with a bowel obstruction and a serious hernia, requiring surgery and intensive care. Despite numerous setbacks, her dedication to rehabilitation at Kindred Hospital allowed her to make significant progress and to transition to a lower level of care.
Dolores, a spirited retiree who had always cherished her independence, began experiencing persistent abdominal pain that disrupted her active lifestyle. Recognizing that something was unusual, she took the proactive step of admitting herself to a local hospital in the Houston area. Upon her admission, a CT scan revealed serious complications that include a large bowel obstruction and a substantial type 4 paraesophageal hernia. These diagnoses necessitated immediate surgical intervention. During the procedure, skilled surgeons performed a hernia repair and placed a gastrostomy tube to ensure Dolores received the nutrition she needed while her condition stabilized.
Unfortunately, Dolores faced several challenges during her recovery in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), spending weeks battling various medical setbacks, including a revision procedure and a thoracentesis for fluid overload. Despite these difficulties, Dolores exhibited remarkable resilience and determination, focusing on her recovery with unwavering spirit. Recognizing the need for comprehensive rehabilitation, the medical team decided it was best for Dolores to transfer to Kindred Hospital Sugarland for extended care. Here, she would receive a multi-faceted approach to recovery, including rigorous physical therapy (PT) and occupational therapy (OT), as well as respiratory therapy to support her lung function and overall recovery.
Prior to her transfer, the interdisciplinary team meticulously studied Dolores’ medical condition and created a tailored care plan that addressed her unique needs. Upon her arrival at Kindred, the dedicated care team quickly sprang into action, committed to helping her regain her strength and independence. Dolores engaged actively in her physical therapy sessions, which focused on building strength, mobility, and endurance. Each day, she progressed through various exercises aimed at improving her muscle tone and overall physical function. Her occupational therapy sessions emphasized regaining the skills necessary for daily living, such as dressing, grooming, and meal preparation while adapting to her gastrostomy tube.
In addition, Dolores received respiratory therapy, which helped her improve her lung capacity and breathing techniques, ensuring she could comfortably engage in her rehabilitation activities. The combination of these therapies enabled her to make significant strides in her recovery process. Through hard work and dedication, Dolores successfully met all the goals outlined in her care plan. As her condition continued to improve, she was able to transition to a lower level of care with confidence. The care team at Kindred would like to wish Delores all the success in her recovery.