Acute Rehab
Acute Rehabilitation
A specialized rehabilitation hospital where a patient can receive intensive therapy with close medical supervision from a rehab physician (physiatrist)
What is Acute Rehab?
Offers continued care and intensive therapy in an acute hospital setting specializing in rehab
Requirements:
- Must have medical condition or functional deficit that cannot be managed safely or effectively in a less intensive setting
- Expectation of measurable, practical improvement in a reasonable time
- Must be able to tolerate intensive therapy
- Must require ongoing medical management from a rehab physician (i.e. pain control, wound care, management of neurological disorders, cardiac or pulmonary monitoring, complex medication management or management of comorbid conditions)
Key Features:
- Acute hospital setting
- Minimum of 3 hours of PT/OT daily, 5 days per week for Medicare patients
- Commercial insurance will dictate number of days per week for their clients
- Medical monitoring and management
- Length of stay is usually 10-14 days
- Goal is to return home safely
Who Needs Acute Rehab?
Common Reasons for Acute Rehab:
- Stroke or Traumatic Brain Injury
- Spinal Cord Injury
- Major Trauma or Fractures
- Amputation
- Debility after a long ICU stay
Services Provided
Medical Services
- 24-hour nursing care with nurses trained in rehab specific issues (such as wound care)
- Daily or near daily visits by rehab physician (physiatrist)
- Medication management and labs
- Comprehensive care plan designed to restore maximum independence
Rehabilitation Services
- 3 hours of therapy/day for 5-7 days per week
- Physical therapy for strength, mobility, and balance
- Occupational therapy for daily living skills
- Speech therapy for communication and swallowing
- Respiratory therapy with breathing treatments
Additional Services
- Assessment and fitting for assistive devices and prosthetics
- Nutritional services and meal planning
- Recreational therapy
- Cognitive and behavioral support
- Social work and discharge planning
- Personal care assistance
- Family education and support
The Acute Rehab Team
Rehab Physician
Physiatrist or physician specializing in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation who screens patients prior to admission to confirm appropriateness for acute rehab and coordinates entire care plan
Rehabilitation Nurses
Provide skilled nursing care and coordinate care
Physical Therapist
Helps improve strength, mobility, and function
Occupational Therapist
Focuses on daily living skills and independence
Speech Therapist
Addresses communication, cognition, and swallowing issues
Social Worker
Helps with discharge planning and insurance authorization