Suzanne's story
“I cannot explain it,” said Suzanne Gregg, 87, a retiree and mother of two daughters. “I was standing at the kitchen counter and then two seconds later, I was on the floor. I don’t know how I fell.”
Fortunately, Suzanne’s husband of 69 years heard her fall. He rushed to her, then called 911. Taken by ambulance to the closest hospital, Suzanne had X-rays taken but when nothing concerning was found, she was sent home.
After Suzanne found herself in a lot of pain two days later, she was again taken by ambulance to the hospital. This time, she underwent a CT scan, or computed tomography scan, which produces more detailed images of the body than an X-ray. The CT scan showed a fracture in her left femur, or thigh bone. In order to stabilize the broken bone, Suzanne underwent intramedullary nail surgery, a procedure that involves inserting a metal rod into the center of a broken bone to stabilize it and help it heal.
When her surgeon recommended inpatient rehabilitation at SSM Health Rehabilitation Hospital – Bridgeton, Suzanne knew it was the right next step. Having previously been to the hospital to recover after knee surgery, she said, “I knew it would be great and that I would get the right treatment.”
Upon admission to Bridgeton, Suzanne was unable to bear weight on her leg or take any steps. She required assistance to complete her self-care tasks, including getting dressed, bathing and using the bathroom. She was also having difficulty getting in and out of bed and into the shower without assistance. Suzanne’s goals for rehabilitation were to be able to stand and walk normally. Her physician-led care team of nurses, physical therapists and occupational therapists worked with Suzanne to develop a care plan that would help her reach her goals and prevent falls.
In physical therapy, Suzanne’s sessions were focused on increasing her ability to bear weight on her left leg to allow her to walk. Initially, therapists focused on different standing activities, including standing in between the parallel bars, to increase her confidence in using her left leg before they were able to do much walking. Once Suzanne became more comfortable, she began practicing her walking, gradually increasing her distance each day. “Suzanne was an absolute joy to work with every day,” her therapist said. “She was always in a good mood and willing to do whatever we asked her to.”
Occupational therapists worked with Suzanne on how to transfer, or safely change positions, to the bed, toilet and shower. They also spent many sessions in the activities of daily living suite – or, as Suzanne called it, “the apartment” – where she practiced standing at the sink, loading and unloading the dishwasher, and getting in and out of the tub in the bathroom.
A highlight for Suzanne was working with the hospital’s facility dog, Duo Dog Kia. Having Kia participate in her physical and occupational therapy sessions provided not only physical support, but emotional support as well.
Suzanne credits her family, particularly her daughters, for their support during her time in rehab. “They were very supportive in helping get me what I needed,” she said. Suzanne also had high praise for her care team. “Every day we have done something that has helped me progress. We have done a lot of exercises that have improved my ability to walk,” Suzanne stated. “They have been very patient and understanding ... they want you to do well, but don’t nag you.”
After 13 days at SSM Health Rehabilitation Hospital – Bridgeton, Suzanne progressed to walking 150 feet independently while using a walker. She was also able to complete all of her self-care tasks without assistance. To build upon her progress, Suzanne planned to continue therapy with home health services.
When asked what insight she gained from her experiences in rehabilitation, Suzanne said: “Listen to what they are telling you and try to do the best you can. I have been at other facilities, and compared to other facilities, they do more things here than other places. I could see the difference. They are more helpful here.”