Meredith Swittenberg
Posts: 6
Joined: April 2, 2000
From: Charlotte, NC USA
Status: offline
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Hey peers--need some help on a personal matter. A family member has been critically ill for the past 6 weeks. Originally with the diagnosis of fecal peritonitis resulting in septic shock. Fortunately, the surgeons are pleased with the way things are looking on the wound front and seem to feel she will completely recover as far as GI function goes.
The trouble is this. 4 days after emergent surgery to her bowels, she developed a fever of 106.7 which did not decrease until 2-3 hours later and hovered at 102 for the next 2 days. Her basal temp is around 96. Anyway, we have been left with what the neurologist is calling a period of anoxia and his prognosis is that she will remain in a "vegetative state" for the rest of her life. Her EEG shows no seizure activity and grossly diffuse brain activity. The CT scan is normal. An MRI has not been done because it does not seem to be called for at this time.
Right now, Inpt. Rehab is not an option. She was evaluated today and they rejected her admission due to lack of participation and inability to follow commands. Doctors say 95% of her recovery will occur in the first 3 months following the ischemic event.
The therapist in me wants to just scream because my profession seems to be "letting us down". There has to be some new stimulatory techniques out there and aggressive treatment techniques we can work on during this crucial window of oppurtunity over the next 6 weeks.
I'd appreciate ANY suggestions and stories of "miracle rehab" with which you have been a part. Thanks a ton. I'm a member of the Peds Forum, but thought I'd reach out across the specialties. Looking forward to your replies!
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