HELPING ROBERT’S SPINAL INURY REHABILITATION AT HOME
Robert sadly suffered a spinal cord injury having fallen down a flight of stairs, resulting in multiple fractures including a spinal fracture to his back.
Following the accident, he had surgery which involved the insertion of pins and plates as well as wrist fusions. This left Robert with paralysis from the chest down, with limited movement in his shoulders, his hands and wrists.
He also had Autonomic Dysreflexia directly related to his spinal cord injury, which causes high blood pressure coupled with slow heart beats. After the acute surgical phase, Robert was discharged from hospital to a specialist spinal injury unit for treatment and rehabilitation, but he was desperate to get back to his much-loved home.
Prestige Nursing & Care was contacted by Robert’s case worker with a view to establishing a 24-hour care and support package. Robert required a team of fully trained carers to meet his complex needs around the clock. They received bespoke training to meet his physical needs and additional clinical training to monitor and support his Autonomic Dysreflexia. A plan of care was then developed for Robert that not only met his care needs, but reflected how he wished to live his life to support his independence, choices and wishes.
Prior to Robert moving home, the team at Prestige worked in partnership with the care management team at the spinal injury unit to ensure a smooth transition back home for Robert. A clear action plan was created to ensure an efficient and effective discharge from the spinal injury unit, with the right adult complex care package in place. Once home Robert’s carers completed training, with the expert oversight of Prestige’s registered nursing team to ensure they were competent to provide the care that Robert needed. The local team worked with other healthcare professionals involved in Robert’s care to ensure he had essential equipment needed to improve the quality of his life at home.
After three years, Robert was able to move back home and his condition is well-managed by the Prestige care team, and its clinical experts. Living at home, with support, has enabled Robert to reclaim and retain as much independence as possible.
