Javier's Story of Rehab, Respiratory Recovery
When Javier arrived at Kindred Hospital, he had a shortness of breath and altered mental status. After working with his interdisciplinary care team, he was able to discharge to home with home health.
A Patient Success Story from Kindred Hospital Santa Ana
Javier, a hairstylist, was admitted to a local hospital for shortness of breath. A dangerous amount of fluid had built up in the sac surrounding his heart, squeezing the heart and causing a medical emergency. Surgeons cut a small opening to drain it, and then placed him on a breathing machine for three days. He also went into atrial fibrillation and required procedures to remove blood clots. While in his prolonged hospitalization, Javier also suffered hospital-acquired pneumonia, chronic hypoxia (inadequate oxygen levels), and obstructive sleep apnea.
He was initially admitted at Kindred Hospital Santa Ana with shortness of breath and altered mental status, requiring close medical attention and skilled therapy services. He also needed dialysis three times a week. Early in his stay, Javier responded well to interventions, showing promising signs of progress. However, his condition became more complex as fluctuating oxygen requirements limited his ability to continue with rehabilitation. When his respiratory status declined further, he required intubation and was placed on a ventilator. At that point, skilled physical and occupational therapy services were paused, and Javier was transitioned to restorative nursing assistance (RNA) services to maintain his current level of function while his medical team focused on stabilizing his condition. Despite this significant setback, his care team remained committed to his recovery, closely monitoring his progress and adjusting his plan as needed.
With time, treatment, and support, Javier’s condition began to improve. He was successfully extubated (had his breathing tube removed) and transitioned to oxygen via nasal cannula. As his respiratory status stabilized, he was able to resume skilled therapy services, marking a critical turning point in his recovery. Javier initially required maximum assistance from two people for transfers, but he steadily regained strength, endurance, and independence. Through consistent therapy and determination, he progressed to needing only supervision for bed mobility and standby assistance for transfers. He ultimately achieved the ability to walk 120 feet using a bariatric walker with contact guard assistance, an incredible milestone considering where he began.
Learn more about: Comprehensive Rehabilitation
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