Mr. W: Regaining Function

Mr. W was admitted to the Kindred Seattle – Northgate Subacute Unit on June 17, 2011. Upon admission, he was evaluated by occupational and physical therapy. He was found to have decreased strength and balance, difficulty with mobility and stairs, and problems with movement of his arms and right hand fingers. Scar tissue from previous skin grafts prevented his shoulders and right fingers from functioning.

Occupational therapy focused on strengthening Mr. W’s right hand as well as the grip strength in both hands. Physical therapy focused on ambulation, stairs, mobility, right shoulder range of motion and scar tissue management.

Upon discharge on July 22, 2011, Mr. W was independent with all functional ambulation, stairs, mobility and self care. His right shoulder was able to reach 20 degrees higher. He was able to bend his index finger an additional 35 degrees in order to touch the palm of his hand and was able to bend his middle finger to touch the tip of his thumb. Additionally, Mr. W regained his ability to hold a pencil in his right hand and write his name.

Kindred Seattle – Northgate’s Subacute Unit offers subacute care for patients who require comprehensive, interdisciplinary inpatient rehabilitation prior to discharge home or to an alternative facility. Additional services available include wound care, IV therapy management, daily suctioning, respiratory care, tube feeding and management of an array of clinically complex care, including pneumonia, diabetes, and chemotherapy.