Hello All!
I am giving a presentation to my outpatient clinic on discharge planning
in the outpatient setting specifically with neurological clientele. I work in
Massachusetts for Spaulding and we have a large outpatient neuro caseload. As
outpatient is the “end of the line” in rehab often the discharges are emotional
for family and clinicians.
I am aware this is a very broad question but how do you all prepare these
patients for their last day in PT?
I usually will connect them with a social worker early on in their care,
introduce them to community resources and day rehab programs if applicable,
talk about discharge early so they are aware of the plan and encourage them to
return for a “tune up” as needed and guided by their neurologist. I am very
specific that this tune up is for one of 3 reasons: their neurologist wants
them to return, they had a fall or new weakness or pain (ect.) or their home
exercise is no longer challenging. We do not have a neuro-focused gym that I
am aware of on the south shore. Prior to the pandemic the YMCAs had assistants
who would assist clients get onto and off of equipment this program is no
longer running unfortunately. I do refer to our outpatient clinic at a gym so
they can be set up with a gym program if they are interested and family and or
friends can be trained to help Them In a gym setting.
What else do others do to prepare for this difficult phase in their journey?
Thank you in advance!
Sincerely,
Kathleen Buzzeo PT, DPT, CBIS
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