Sunshine Coast locals requiring rehabilitation during a stay in hospital will now have early access to a new intensive rehabilitation service.
A win-win for rehabilitation services at Sunshine Coast University Hospital, the Rehabilitation Response Service will contribute to less time in hospital and improved quality of life when patients return to the community.
The Rehab Response team (RRT) will visit patients in their hospital room, to start intensive rehabilitation early with patients whilst they are awaiting a rehabilitation pathway or are deciding what discharge option is best for them.
Talking about the introduction of the new service, Sunshine Coast Health Executive Director Allied Health, Dr Gemma Turato said:
"One of the unfortunate realities of patients spending a long time in a hospital bed is the decline in physical function of the body as a result of physical inactivity,"
"Through the provision of increased functional therapy and intensity of treatment, the Rehabilitation Response team’s focus is to contribute to shorter length of stay in hospital."
The service aims to improve patients' cognitive and physical abilities, with a view to helping them be at their best functionally before leaving hospital and minimising the risk of secondary complications such as deconditioning.
Narelle Salent, a previously active and independent person, lost most of her ability to perform activities of daily living after a lengthy stay in the Intensive Care Unit. The RRT have assisted Narelle with physical therapies to regain her strength and condition to get back to walking and overall independence.
“I was so weak, I had no strength in my arms or legs, I couldn’t even hold a cup,” Ms Salent said.
“The best thing about the RRT is my therapists who know what I am capable of and don’t let me put limitations on myself. I appreciate them motivating me to keep going”.