Rehab 101

Sorry that it has been so long since I have updated the Blog. We have been so busy. Dave was transported by ambulance to Chelsea Hospital in Chelsea MI (20 mins W of Ann Arbor) last Week. His first Day was a bit tough as he had a long ride on a narrow bed, and later, his blood pressure took a huge drop into the low 70s. This had the result of making both of us nervous about the move, and evidently made the rehab Dr. nervous as well. They held Dave back from any actual rehab until the consulting cardiologist could see Dave that night.
The cardiologist was very thorough - he took an hour just to review Dave's extensive file. He felt that maybe the transfer had stressed Dave and also that he might be on too heavy a medication for blood pressure, so he reduced it slightly and put Dave on a halter monitor so that a continuous EKG would be recorded. After a couple of days of low-key rehab, his blood pressure rose into the 110ish level, and DAve felt more energetic and less light headed.
Since then, Dave has learned a lot. EVerything from dressing himself, bathing, walking with a walker, maintaining balance, exercising and some other therapies. He has been busy and usually is committed to three hours a day of therapy of one kind or another.
I originally tried to get DAve moved to U of M where their acute rehab was based at a hospital that has a cardiac unit...it was nerve racking that Chelsea does not have a cardiologist, in the event of an emergency, DAve would have to be transported to U of M. But I had no success with finding a better situation, and now it appears that Dave will probably come home on Friday the 12th, so I am not as afraid.

Today, I have been thrilled to be able to get DAve in to see his new cardiologist tomorrow!!! This is great news, as we have been on a wait list until the end of the month, and I have been afraid to have him home outside of the supervision of his cardiologist...so I feel much better. It will be hectic tomorrow to go from rehab to cardiologist to rehab, to home...but it will be worth it in peace of mind!

I have not had much time with DAve in rehab, as it is a good 45min drive to Chelsea daily and while I am there with Dave until mid evening, there is no internet wireless in the hospital. With him home, I will have more opportunity to keep up.
I would expect, with the transition, that Dave will probably not be up to vists right away. The DR. explained that transitions are the most volatile time for Dave so I need to keep him calm and stress free. I know that Dave will want to see people, but I suggest that in a few days you call me first to see whats best - my phone is 248-505-7277.

Thank you again for everything...especially the prayers, and keep them coming!
Melody