Debra Sturdivant, age 62, was admitted from Atrium Health Union with primary diagnoses of acute respiratory failure, COVID-19, ARDS, pneumonia, and acute renal failure.

Situation:
Debra Sturdivant, age 62, was admitted to Carolinas ContinueCARE Hospital at Pineville from Atrium Health Union. Her primary diagnoses were acute respiratory failure, COVID-19, ARDS, pneumonia, and acute renal failure. She had a past medical history of recent cardiac arrest, HTN, diabetes and obesity. While at Union, Debra received a tracheostomy and a peg tube and required dialysis for a period. Fortunately, for her, she had renal recovery and no longer needed dialysis prior to coming to our hospital. Mrs. Sturdivant transferred to Carolinas ContinueCARE Hospital at Pineville for ventilator weaning and further management of pneumonia and her multiple comorbid conditions. Prior to her admission to Union, she resided with her spouse at home in Monroe, NC and was working a full-time job. Her goal was to return home and return to her previous level of functioning.

Solution:
While at Carolinas ContinueCARE Hospital at Pineville, Mrs. Sturdivant’s treatment plan included being followed by Internal Medicine, Pulmonology, ENT, physical, occupational and speech therapy, dietary, and wound care nurse and NP.

Results:

During her 36-day stay at our LTACH, Mrs. Sturdivant was weaned from the ventilator and decannulated. She passed a swallow evaluation and began a regular diet. She progressed with physical and occupational therapy and was able to take a few steps with a rolling walker in her room and participate with activities of daily living. Mrs. Sturdivant was evaluated and accepted into the Acute Rehab program at Pineville Rehabilitation Hospital. After her two-week stay in rehab, she was discharged and able to return home with her spouse, family support, and home health care.