The Westchester House helps sepsis, wound care patient regain independence

Barbara Dubach wasn’t able to do much when she arrived at The Westchester House in Chesterfield, Missouri, for rehabilitation.

Barbara needed help recovering from sepsis, dealing with gastroparesis (a condition in which the stomach has trouble passing food through) and healing from a stage 4 wound. When she admitted to the facility on Nov. 4, 2020, she was unable to sit up for mobility or transfers. She needed moderate assistance with bathing and dressing and supervision with hygiene and self-feeding.

The physical therapy team stepped in to address her needs. Therapists used progressive resistive exercises to help rebuild her strength, as well as diathermy for wound healing and the NuStep^® seated exercise machine for further strength, coordination and endurance.

“Barbara was very determined and worked hard to achieve her goals,” said Allison Buehrle, physical therapist and assistant director of rehab. “She always had a positive attitude and has been an inspiration to other residents.”

Barbara shared, “The team kept encouraging me not to give up. They walk with me hand by hand through the good days and the bad. They were an ear to listen and an advocate for me when I needed one. I know I can call on them to this day. I will always call them friends.”

Barbara completed her therapy on July 9, 2021. She is independent in her bed mobility, transfers, walking and stair climbing – all without an assistive device! Her wound has also resolved. What a long way she has come!