From ulcers to independence: How the care team at Extendicare Medex helped Doug get back on his feet
When Doug moved into Extendicare Medex in Ottawa, he was struggling with diabetic ulcers on his feet. His mobility was impacted due to pain from the ulcers, leaving him unable to walk independently.
“I didn’t want to walk at all,” says Doug. “I couldn’t if I tried.”
Thanks to the dedication and clinical excellence of the care team at Extendicare Medex which includes nursing staff, wound care specialists, support workers, dietitians, physiotherapists and physicians, in addition to Doug’s hard work, he regained his strength.
“Communication is the key for us,” says Gopu, a physiotherapist at Extendicare Medex. “We work together towards our goals and care plans.”
“You need to find out what the residents' goals are. I talk about the team with our families, the strength of our physiotherapy department, the dedication of our personal support workers, many of whom have been here for years and years” says Joan, a Registered Nurse at the home. “It helps to show families the professionalism of our team and the passion that we have for our residents here.”
Teamwork and personalizing Doug’s care plan
Doug’s journey to independence included consultations with a chiropodist every three weeks, special dressings to heal the initial wounds, and daily care from team members like Meheret, a Registered Practical Nurse in the home.
Once the wounds healed, Gopu, and his Physiotherapy Assistants became the key to getting Doug up and moving to promote further healing. They encouraged him to come to the physiotherapy office to use the adapted exercise bike for low-impact strength and cardio workouts, pulling on Doug’s competitive side to set goals and work towards surpassing them alongside his fellow residents. The Extendicare Medex team contributed to the care plan by constantly updating with photos and progress reports on his healing journey and communicating with Doug and his family to ensure everyone was aligned on each step.
Healing journey
Over time, Doug and his care team continued to work together and he steadily improved.
“With the support of our team, he began walking again,” says Thushadi, Infection Prevention and Control Lead. “Initially, he required significant assistance, but now Doug walks confidently with a walker to and from the dining hall, needing only minimal supervision.”
“When I first saw him, I said, ‘You’re walking,’” says Joan. “I was so taken aback and proud. It was beautiful.”
Doug smiles when he talks about the support he has received from his care team, who continue to encourage his recovery.
“Trust the experts,” he says. “They couldn’t be any better.”
Doug’s progress didn't stop when his wounds healed. He is now very active in the home.
Each morning, he joins Jasmine, a Restorative Care Aide, for exercises and walking programs. He is often the first to take part in any programs that get him up and moving.
Doug’s care team has also seen other residents and team members become motivated by his story as they’ve watched him gain independence and mobility.
Suad, Health Care Aide, explains that independence is more than just requiring less help. “When the residents are able to do more for themselves, it plays into their emotional and psychological well-being. They regain confidence and build self-esteem.”
As for Doug, he is expected to become fully independent with the support of a mobility device as he continues to build strength and stamina. It is a point of pride for the team who know all too well how much effort Doug put into his recovery.
“When you have a success story, you go home proud. You think, “I made a difference in someone’s life,” says Joan, “As a team we made a difference.”
“This transformation is a testament to the power of great teamwork, compassionate care, and Doug's determination,” says Thushadi. “Extendicare Medex is incredibly proud of Doug's journey from ulcers to independence and looks forward to celebrating his continued success.”