Earnestine's Story of Recovery from Respiratory Failure
When Earnestine arrived at Kindred Hospital, she required intubation and mechanical ventilation. After working with her interdisciplinary care team, she was able to discharge to a Skilled Nursing Facility.
A Patient Success Story from Kindred Hospital East New Jersey
Earnestine experienced life-threatening complications while undergoing surgery to remove part of her colon and address gastrointestinal issues. While in the operating room, Earnestine lost blood pressure, and she was taken to the ICU with her abdomen still open. She experienced respiratory failure and was intubated, placed on vasopressors and put under deep sedation.
On full ventilator support, Earnestine was transferred to Kindred Hospital East New Jersey for respiratory therapy and specialized care to treat six pressure wounds, along with the open surgical abdominal wound and a left ileostomy that required copious drainage. She also required a feeding tube and needed 2-3 people to help her roll or sit up at the edge of the bed.
After arriving in such a fragile state, Earnestine achieved milestone after milestone in her recovery during a 63-day stay at Kindred.
With the support of Kindred’s respiratory team, she completed 72 hours with a trach collar, then 72 hours of capping and nasal oxygen at 2LPM. Then, 3 days later, a big announcement was made over the PA speaker to celebrate the removal of her tracheostomy tube.
In addition, Earnestine passed a swallow test and began eating a puree diet. She also regained strength and the ability to stand and take steps in her room. Last but not least, five of Earnestine’s six pressure injuries healed by the time of discharge.
After discharge, Earnestine was transferred to a skilled nursing facility to continue her recovery.
Learn more about: Respiratory Care
Take a Personalized Tour
If you’re considering Kindred Hospitals for your loved one, there is no better way to learn about our facilities and offerings than to visit in-person. When you schedule a tour, we can prepare a personalized experience, tailored to your loved one's needs.