The Four Stairs of Care

I have found that all too often clients do not know what to expect as they transition through an unexpected health problem or even an elected surgical process.  Clients want to get back to their prior  level of functioning as quickly as possible and the medical team serving them wants that too.  For this reason, I have developed the "Four Stairs of Care" and wanted to share it with you.

1. Hospital Stay

You have had a fall, injury or scheduled surgery and need acute care and treatment in the hospital.  After treatment you may be sent to a skilled nursing facility or to an assisted living facility.

 2. Skilled Nursing

Your level of care is not as acute as on Stair 1 but consistent therapy and/or nursing is vital to continue healing.  On Stair 2 your doctor does not make rounds but has turned care over to the team at the facility who keep in close touch with him to note any concerns or changes.

3. Home With Home Health

You are doing well enough to go home with continued assistance through a Home Health Agency.  While in the facility you can make the social services department aware of which agency you would like for Home Health Services.  Once discharged from the facility, an agency nurse will come to your home to evaluate and assess you and your needs.  Physical Therapy will continue to work with you a few times each week and an Aide may be available to assist you with your Activities of Daily Living such as showering, grooming and light housekeeping. 

4. Home With No Assistance

Congratulations!! You made it!!  You have returned to your prior level of functioning and you are able to take care of your Activities of Daily Living for the most part, on your own.  There may still be follow up appointments to attend but you no longer need the therapy and/or nursing from Home Health.  The discharge from Home Health service will occur when your Doctor has given an order for your release.  

Feel free to share this information with those who could benefit from it and, as always, let me know if there is anything Freedom Home Health and Hospice can do for you or someone you love.