Bruce's Success Story
From Cornerstone Specialty Hospitals Austin
Bruce, a young and vibrant individual who enjoys playing PlayStation at home, faced a life-altering challenge when he was hospitalized due to a gunshot wound to his upper thorax. During his time in the hospital, he experienced fluctuating medical conditions, including bacterial pulmonary contusions and pneumomediastinum, which necessitated surgery for a tracheal injury repair. Unfortunately, Bruce's condition worsened, requiring him to be placed on a ventilator for breathing support. Despite these setbacks, Bruce remained hopeful and determined throughout his recovery journey.
After several weeks of intensive medical treatment, and once his condition stabilized, a medical decision was made to transfer Bruce to Cornerstone Specialty Hospital Austin for extended care that focused on ventilator weaning and a comprehensive rehabilitation program. Before Bruce's admission to Cornerstone, the interdisciplinary team developed a tailored care plan centered on his specific medical needs, with the primary objective of facilitating ventilator weaning. Upon arrival, Bruce's care team promptly sprang into action to support his recovery.
Once settled in, Bruce embraced the care plan with diligence. He collaborated closely with his pulmonologist and the respiratory therapy team, engaging in breathing exercises designed to enhance his lung function and capacity. His consistent efforts paid off, and after several weeks of hard work, Bruce successfully liberated himself from the ventilator and began to breathe independently. Now free from the ventilator, Bruce's motivation soared. He enthusiastically participated in physical and occupational therapy sessions aimed at restoring his mobility and functionality. The physical therapy team focused on strength-building exercises to enhance his endurance, incorporating progressive activities that challenged him while ensuring his safety.
At the same time, occupational therapy aimed to help Bruce regain the skills necessary for daily living. His therapists engaged him in simulated real-life tasks, which built his confidence and independence. Bruce’s positive attitude and commitment to his therapy not only impressed his care team but also accelerated his progress.
Recognizing the potential impact of his tracheal injury on his communication abilities, Bruce also began speech therapy. Through assessments, speech therapists evaluated his communication and swallowing skills, developing personalized strategies to address any difficulties. Bruce participated in various exercises focusing on articulation, voice modulation, and cognitive-linguistic tasks, leading to significant improvements in his ability to communicate effectively. The therapists also taught him safe swallowing techniques, ensuring he could enjoy meals without risk.
With his unwavering spirit and the dedicated support of his interdisciplinary care team, Bruce has made remarkable strides in his recovery while passing goals in his care plan. Bruce was discharged from Cornerstone and returned home to his loving family. From the entire staff at Cornerstone, we wish Bruce all the success in his recovery.
Care for Complex Conditions
Patients come to our hospitals with serious conditions such as respiratory failure, complex wounds, sepsis, stroke, congestive heart failure, or even a combination of these. Their diagnoses are often complicated by existing health problems like diabetes or COPD. Many of our patients require treatments such as mechanical ventilators, dialysis, or IV therapy.