Cindy’s caregivers, Rita, Mary and Debbie, were involved in Cindy’s Physical and Occupational Therapy today. We were asked questions about her daily life to make sure that the Physical and Occupational Therapists would be able to cover everything she needs in order to go home.
They also tested her on her ability to get around when she’s home by “simulating” the layout of her living space. Occupatoinal Therapy introduced some new exercises using Thera Bands.
Cindy had some issues this weekend.
- Coughing – this is probably due to the trachea being too big. Cindy will be given a smaller trach tomorrow.
- Numbness in her fingertips – this can be either neuropathy (diabtetes) or from leaning on her walker.
- Can’t make a fist – this might be from leaning on her walker
- Retaining fluids and feet are swelling – they’re increasing her diuretics
- Liver and bilirubin enzymes are elevated – they’ve been more elevated in the past so they are monitoring her blood week for the next few days
Cindy was scheduled to leave the rehab this Wednesday (July 23), but due to the above issues, her stay will probably be extended until next Tuesday (July 29) at the earliest. The rehab doctor wants to monitor Cindy more closely for a while. This isn’t making the insurance company happy (TOO BAD!!!).