A therapy-led rehabilitation project has helped one in four patients have their care downgraded to support them in returning home sooner.
The project carried out on Ward 24 at Fairfield General Hospital in Bury looks to enhance patients’ independence.
Through introducing strengths-based conversations the multi-disciplinary team has been able to build up patient confidence, provide more personalised care and help build on their strengths so the patient feels more in control of their health.
Harold’s helping hand
Harold was admitted following a fall and had decreased mobility. He had lost his confidence and was more anxious.
Prior to the fall Harold was an avid tram spotter, was mobile and would go out regularly on his own.
Through creating person centred goals Harold was able to go home with short term care.
Harold was encouraged to walk further to build up his exercise tolerance and to help manage his shortness of breath.
It was arranged to have his home fitted to aid his independence.
Harold said: “Therapy has helped to gain my independence back. I found the goals we created were specific to me and my lifestyle which was good because I was able to imagine myself doing them at home.
“I’m going to keep taking it a day at a time and I’ve already got some tram spotting days in the pipeline.”
Temi Owoyemi, team lead physiotherapist – rehab, Fairfield General Hospital, said: “Harold’s journey demonstrates the value of person-centred therapy and strong multi-disciplinary team (MDT) collaboration. By setting meaningful goals based on his interests, we were able to support both his physical recovery and emotional wellbeing.
“The MDT—including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, medical team, nursing, and social care—worked together to create a safe discharge plan.”