Trilla Richardson, age 55, was admitted to Carolinas ContinueCARE Hospital at University from Atrium Health Cabarrus. She was diagnosed with COVID-19 and acute respiratory failure.
Situation: She was initially admitted to the ED at Atrium Health Stanly where she required emergent intubation before a transfer to Cabarrus. She was diagnosed with COVID-19 and acute respiratory failure. She received a trach and peg tube while at Cabarrus. She also had acute renal failure requiring Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT) for a short period. Mrs. Richardson was also being treated with antibiotics for pneumonia.
She was transferred to Carolinas ContinueCARE Hospital at University for vent weaning, continued antibiotic therapy and management of her other comorbid conditions including diabetes, asthma and GERD.
Prior to Mrs. Richardson’s admission, she resided in her home in Norwood, NC with her spouse and son, and worked as a full-time hairdresser. Her goal was to return home and to her previous level of functioning.
Solution: During her stay at Carolinas ContinueCARE Hospital at University, Mrs. Richardson was followed by our hospitalist, pulmonology, Infectious Disease, dietician, wound care nurse, wound care NP. She was also treated by physical, occupational and speech therapy.
Results: During her 30-day stay at Carolinas ContinueCARE Hospital at University, Mrs. Richardson was able to wean from the ventilator and was decannulated, passed a swallow evaluation, started on a regular diet, and progressed with therapy to a modified independence level. She discharged home with a rolling walker, family support and home health care for continued therapy.