A recent 19-year-old female patient was admitted to the Peak Care Unit because she hit a tree at a high rate of speed while skiing. She sustained L2-4 lumbar fractures, sacral fractures, pelvic fractures, abdominal wall hematoma, and a pneumothorax. She was not mobilizing due to her injuries, pain, and fear. The therapy department was having a tough time convincing her and her family that she needed to participate in therapy.
There was an excellent collaboration between all the nurses who were involved in this patient's direct care during her stay. A trapeze was placed from a recommendation by one of the RN's so the patient could assist in her bed mobility. Also, the therapist recommended the use of the Sara-Steady to have the patient exit her bed.
However, the nurse that assisted further with this patient's success was Stephanie Trasatti. Stephanie met with the therapists in the department first thing in the morning to have a plan of action. She informed the therapists the best time for therapy treatment based on medication administration. She also stated she wanted to be present for the patient's therapy session, so a specific time was arranged.
Stephanie was extremely calm and encouraging to the patient during the treatment. Because of her calmness, she motivated and built trust through her physical therapy treatment. Stephanie's collaborative effort assisted in this patient's rehabilitation and care and the patient was able to discharge the next day.