Mr. Gardner is a recent success story we want to share. He sustained a hip fracture at home from a fall, and subsequently was admitted to the hospital where he underwent ORIF to repair his hip. While in the hospital he declined significantly, both physically and mentally. He had a fifteen day hospital stay and the family was informed that there was nothing else that could be done for him. He was not responsive while in the hospital after surgery.

Mr. Gardner had never taken any medications before so when the family was told that his prognosis was poor, they requested that his meds be discontinued. When the doctor came in later–after the meds had been discharged–Mr. Gardner was still unresponsive until the doctor said, ” Good Morning, Mr. Gardner.”

He then opened his eyes and said, “Well, good morning to you, doc!”

From then on he started to improve and he received PT at the hospital until he was able to transfer with extensive assistance.

When he arrived at our facility he had significant reports of pain, still required extensive assistance with transfers and was unable to ambulate. He stayed at our facility for twenty days. During that time he made daily progress. His family was very involved and supportive. The Therapy Department was able to educate them on his progress, on how to manage him at home, and what precautions to follow during mobility.

Upon discharge, Mr. Gardner was able to ambulate short distance with a rolling walker and contact guard assistance. He reported minimal pain in his operative hip. He returned home with his wife, many children and grandchildren, and nieces and nephews to check on him daily.  The facility has learned through communication with the family, that the patient continues to excel at home and still has hopes of getting on his tractor again!