Recovering from an illness, surgery, or injury often requires more than just a hospital stay. For many patients, short term rehabilitation in a skilled nursing facility is the key to regaining strength, restoring mobility, and returning home safely.
However, if you or a loved one has never experienced short term rehab before, the process may seem unfamiliar. This guide will walk you through each stage of the journey – from hospital discharge to completing therapy and transitioning home – so you know what to expect.
Transitioning from Hospital to Short Term Rehab
The journey to recovery typically begins with a hospital stay following an illness, surgery, or injury. Once a patient is medically stable but still needs additional support before returning home, a doctor may recommend a short term rehabilitation stay at a skilled nursing facility. This type of rehab is designed to provide medical supervision, therapy, and care to help patients regain independence.
Before leaving the hospital, a discharge planner or case manager will assist in arranging the transition to a skilled nursing facility like the Methodist Home for Nursing and Rehabilitation. They will coordinate with the rehab team to ensure a smooth transfer and that all medical records and care instructions are shared. Upon arrival at the facility, the patient will be welcomed by the staff, given personalized assessments, and introduced to our care team.
Inpatient Skilled Nursing and Therapy Services
At a short term rehab facility, patients receive comprehensive, multidisciplinary care designed to support their recovery. This includes skilled nursing care for medical needs, such as wound care, pain management, and medication administration, as well as specialized therapy services.
The specific care plan is custom to each patient and their specific needs, but therapy services provided at the Methodist Home include:
- Physical therapy to improve strength, balance, endurance, and mobility.
- Occupational therapy to help patients regain the ability to perform daily tasks, such as dressing, bathing, laundry, and cooking.
- Speech therapy for patients recovering from stroke or neurological conditions that affect communication or swallowing.
- Respiratory therapy for patients who need support managing breathing conditions.
- Dialysis treatment for patients in need of kidney support and care.
The team of nurses, therapists, and social workers work together to create a personalized care plan that aligns with the patient’s goals and recovery timeline. Therapy sessions occur regularly, and progress is carefully monitored to ensure that each patient is meeting their goals.
Meeting Therapy Goals and Regaining Strength
Each patient’s recovery journey is unique, and the time needed for rehabilitation varies depending on their condition. Throughout their stay, patients work closely with their therapists to build strength, mobility, and confidence in performing everyday activities.
Therapy goals may include walking safely with or without assistance, improving balance to reduce fall risks, strengthening muscles to regain mobility, learning how to manage pain and energy levels effectively, and regaining independence in dressing, grooming, and meal preparation.
Small achievements add up to big progress, and encouragement from therapists, caregivers, and family members plays a crucial role in keeping patients motivated during this often challenging journey.
Discharge Planning and Returning Home
As therapy goals are met and the patient becomes more independent, the next step is planning for a safe discharge home. The Methodist Home’s care coordination team works closely with each patient and their family to ensure a smooth transition.
Discharge planning may include:
- A home safety assessment to recommend modifications like grab bars or ramps.
- Continued therapy recommendations, whether outpatient rehab or home health services.
- Medication management and follow-up appointments to ensure ongoing care.
- Family and caregiver education to help support the patient at home.
Our goal is always to ensure that patients have everything they need to continue their recovery safely and confidently after leaving the facility.
How Can We Help You Heal?
Short term rehabilitation plays a crucial role in helping individuals recover and regain their independence after a hospital stay. From the moment a patient arrives at the Methodist Home to the day they return home, they receive comprehensive, compassionate care tailored to their recovery needs.
If you or a loved one is in need of short term rehab, understanding the process can make the transition smoother and less stressful. Contact us today to ask any questions you may have and to learn more about our five-star-rated short term rehab services. We are here to support you every step of the way!
