Working Together to Advance Your Recovery

Critical care and medical rehabilitation both require teamwork. It takes a dedicated team of skilled professionals working in close collaboration to ensure quality care and individual progress.

Depending on your diagnosis and personal needs, your interdisciplinary team may include:

• Physiatrists are physicians board-certified in physical medicine and rehabilitation will direct your overall medical care. Other specialist physicians may also be involved in your treatment as needed.
• Nurses are on duty 24 hours a day to assist with medications, self-care and help reinforce mobility activities. Specially trained wound care nurses may also manage surgical or pre-existing skin injuries.
• Nursing assistants provide assistance with daily living activities under the direction of the registered nurse.
• Respiratory therapists are available around the clock to supervise ventilator dependent patients, lead breathing exercises and conduct liberation programs.
• Physical therapists will help optimize your muscle control, balance, flexibility and movement. They also help you build strength and endurance.
• Occupational therapists will help you regain the skills and strategies needed to perform daily activities such as dressing, grooming and eating. They will also assess your need for assistive equipment and help resolve any visual or cognitive issues you may have.
• Speech-language pathologists will work with you to improve language, cognition and communication skills, as well as swallowing deficits.
• Neuropsychologists offer individual, group and family counseling to help you understand and cope with the many changes you will experience both during rehabilitation and after discharge.
• Case managers will coordinate your discharge, helping to identify the appropriate destination, continued medical and rehabilitation services and equipment, as well as sharing community and other resources that may be available.
• Pharmacists will work closely with you, your physician, nurses and therapists to ensure that your medication needs are met.
• Dietitians will provide a nutritional plan designed to help regain your strength. This may include providing supplements or texture modifications and/or preparing vegetarian, kosher or other special diets.

Additionally, other clinical, administrative and support staff may be consulted as needed.