Pretty good overall . You need to be aware and advocate for yourself but overall it’s pretty good for a rehab. They’re very good at their main function, rehab (walking, weights, etc.). I’m getting stronger and steadier every day.
I do have to speak up sometimes about getting the right meds at the right times.
When I first arrived they gave me hydrocortisone along with my other meds. When I questioned it they said it was for inflammatory bowel disease. This made no sense since the inflamed part (my colon) was removed in the 70s and I haven’t been treated for inflammation in any way since then. I refused it and the GI doc later confirmed that I did the right thing. I have no need for it and it could have been counterproductive.
I think it may have been due to a miscommunication with the hospital. They were giving me cortisone at one point; I think to raise my blood pressure, but it had been weeks since they had given it to me. So I don’t know that I can blame the rehab.
My big problem right now is eating. Solid food causes problems so they have me on clear liquids (I’m getting my nutrition via TPN through a pic line). But even liquids go straight through me.
I have an appointment on Monday with a specialist at Jefferson in Philly. He’s supposedly one of the best for my type of situation. Hopefully he’ll have some answers.
No idea, but lately I’m getting the impression that they’re moving in that direction. I don’t feel that I’m ready but ultimately it’s up to the insurance company.
I’d rather be eating and not have to deal with the TPN at home.
I’m glad you’re getting stronger. I agree that dealing with TPN at home will be annoying, but getting out of rehab as soon as possible is better in the long run for your health.
Have you thought about joining one of the mafia games over on the Giraffe Board? Just something to keep you busy in your down time.
Changes are your insurance either has a limit on skilled nursing care / rehab, or they’ve deemed you “as recovered as you’re gonna get” and consider it a long-term-care scenario.
You (or your brother) should contact your insurer - and possibly the state’s insurance commissioner. The insurer, to find out what’s going on. The insurance commissioner, in case you’re getting shafted by insurer bureaucrats.