Does Delirium Need Immediate Medical Referral in a Frail, Homebound Elder?
Background and Purpose: This case report describes the clinical decision making process of a physical therapist whose examination of a home bound elderly woman led to a referral for hospitalization. We illustrate how the use of a comprehensive systems screen and thorough examination identified a patient with treatable conditions that required medical care. Case Description: The patient was a frail 93-year-old woman. She was referred for home-care physical therapy with multiple medical comorbidities and functional decline following a short hospitalization for fall-related injuries. Her function improved after several visits, but upon resuming treatment after a 2-week hiatus, the patient demonstrated major decline in cognitive and physical function. Outcomes: The comprehensive systems screen revealed that the patient had increased pallor, loose and frequent bowel movements, urinary incontinence and increased frequency of micturition, confusion and apathy, and extreme fatigue. Her examina
Related Questions
- DO I NEED A REFERRAL FROM MY MEDICAL DOCTOR TO VISIT WITH A CHIROPRACTOR, PHYSIOTHERAPIST, NATUROPATHIC DOCTOR OR REGISTERED MASSAGE THERAPIST?
- What type of medical practitioner is required to provide a physical therapy referral?
- Does Delirium Need Immediate Medical Referral in a Frail, Homebound Elder?
