Respiratory Care Case Study

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Dorothy, 72

Diagnosis: Ventilator dependency

After a serious bout with pneumonia, Dorothy had been placed on a ventilator to support her breathing. She was worried she'd never be able to breathe on her own again.

Dorothy's history of emphysema and oxygen dependency was making it difficult for her to get out of the ICU and off the ventilator. Her pulmonologist referred her to Bethesda Hospital for aggressive rehabilitation to get her weaned off the vent and back home.

Dorothy’s therapists worked daily at her bedside to increase her strength and endurance. Soon Dorothy was able to go to the physical therapy department with the aid of a portable ventilator and oxygen.

At first, Dorothy had limited energy to dress and bathe herself. With an individualized treatment, Dorothy’s nurses helped her move from total dependence to independence during her stay.

The nurses and respiratory therapists monitored Dorothy’s tolerance and adjusted her ventilator settings accordingly.

She was fully weaned off her ventilator in 31 days and returned home with her portable oxygen.