Hospital: PAM Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Surprise
Diagnosis: Traumatic brain injury; Worker’s compensation
Wesley “Lee” Hight was at work when he fell from a loading dock and sustained a traumatic brain injury. He came to PAM Health Specialty Hospital of Rocky Mount from The Shepherd Center in Atlanta, Georgia, where he had been admitted following a brain injury. The injury had caused some behavioral side effects that were hampering his recovery. For his own safety, he needed constant monitoring and restraints. He also could not walk, talk, or eat normally because of his tracheostomy.
After we began caring for Mr. Hight, we focused on working toward the removal of his tracheostomy knowing that would be an important step in advancing his ability to participate more actively in therapy. On October 19, 2022, 29 days after arriving, he was decannulated and weaned off supplemental oxygen entirely.
Mr. Hight gave it his all in therapy, striving to improve balance, strength, and mobility. By the time he left us, he could transfer to and from the bed without using the Hoyer lift and propel his wheelchair with his feet all over the hospital.
In addition, speech therapy greatly helped Mr. Hight improve communicating his wants and needs verbally. The speech therapist realized he could read and follow written instructions, which made a huge impact on how he could communicate with his family and staff members. He was also able to safely swallow modified snacks – especially chocolate pudding and ginger ale slushies.
In fact, eating and drinking were the favorite parts of Mr. Hight’s day. Occupational therapy had worked with him on his activities of daily living, including being able to feed himself snacks with assistance and supervision. He also progressed to the point where he was able to express and assist with his personal care needs.
During his time with us, Mr. Hight became like a member of the family. Our dedicated in-house workers’ compensation case manager communicated frequently regarding his progress. Everyone on the team collaborated to ensure he received the optimum in care.
