HARLINGEN – Valley Baptist Medical Center-Harlingen is set to unveil a number of upgrades to its Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit on today, March 29, 2018.
Inpatient rehabilitation is such an important part of a patient’s recovery and prepares them for returning back to home and work.
The unit benefits patients recovering after a stroke, joint replacement surgery, brain surgery, or amputation; as well as those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, spinal cord injuries, Parkinson’s Disease and other conditions.
The expanded 18-bed unit will feature all-private rooms to allow patients the privacy and comfort needed to recover, an expanded therapy gym, and is staffed by an interdisciplinary team to include physicians, physical and occupational therapists, speech/language pathologists, specially trained nurses, social workers and other trained specialists.
The unit boasts new gym equipment, a car simulator to assist patients with the act of getting in and out of a car, as well as a situational home replication suite to facilitate everyday home life activities.
“The Rehabilitation Unit focuses on intensive therapy and restorative care, with the goal being to increase a patient’s level of function before returning home,” said Rosie Aguilar, RN and Program Director of Rehab Services.
Trained specialists not only work with patients, but assist family and their caregiver network to help maintain mobility and function after they’ve left the hospital.
Physicians are assisted by specially-trained rehabilitation nurses who provide patients with around-the-clock care and support.
Patients undergoing rehabilitation participate in three hours of treatment specific to their healthcare needs daily, five days a week.
“Our nurses help explain what is happening to the patients, so they know what to expect when it comes to their treatments, progress, and potential challenges,” said Aguilar.
“The nurses are available to the patient 24 hours a day – and of course, we have the on-site back-up of the largest hospital in Cameron County, for patients with emergency needs.”
Other key members of the rehab team include physical therapists, who evaluate and educate patients on improving their mobility through the use of assistive devices such as a walker, cane, or wheelchair.
Physical therapists also work with the patient on improving their overall strength, balance, and endurance through therapeutic exercises.
“This unit is designed for patients who need intensive rehabilitation therapy – at least three hours a day of physical, occupational and/or speech therapy,” Aguilar said.
“We are committed to helping our patients regain their sense of well-being and independence and to reach their highest level of function. Our patients are treated by a group of highly-trained professionals who work as a team to assist them in preparing to return to a normal life.”
A ribbon cutting ceremony and open house are scheduled for Thursday, March 29 from 4 to 6 p.m. at Valley Baptist Medical Center–Harlingen located at 2101 Pease St. in Harlingen.
Guests will meet in the South Tower Lobby and be escorted to the Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit by Valley Baptist volunteers.
To find out more information on inpatient rehabilitation call (956) 389-1550 or visit www.ValleyBaptist.net/medical-services/rehabilitation.
