If you are running a care home with residents who have survived a stroke, you need to have an effective rehabilitation plan in place. The aim of post-stroke rehabilitation care is to help the residents improve their motor, sensory, and cognitive skills. Throughout the recovery, the needs of patients may change, so the plan has to be modified accordingly. Having an effective post-stroke care plan can not only improve the quality of life of the residents but will also reduce the chances of another stroke.
Over here we discuss factors that you should consider for making an effective post-stroke care plan:
Learn about the effects of stroke: The effects of stroke vary from person to person and, thus, the post-stroke care plan has to be individualised. The care depends upon the type, severity, location, and the number of strokes. Depending on the area and side of the brain affected by the stroke, any or all the functions related to that part may get affected. While some stroke survivors recover quickly, many may require long-term care. As a stroke happens quickly, you should be aware of its symptoms so that you can act swiftly in case of a second stroke.
Assess the personal needs of the patient: Before extending care you need to determine the kind of help the patient needs. The care plan involves personal care such as bathing, combing, and dressing. While you must encourage patients to take responsibility for their care, there will be a time when there will be a change in abilities which may demand a change in care services. Any improvement or decline has to be taken into account.
Make care home safe: Impaired mobility and reduced balance are the leading causes of falls and fall-related injuries among stroke survivors. You have to ensure essential fall prevention practices are followed in your care home. Modify the room, especially the bathroom to match abilities. Remove rugs that cause falls. Put grab bars and seats in the bathroom and shower.
Ensure a healthy diet: Eating well after a stroke is the key to recovery. A healthy diet that helps in keeping blood pressure, body weight in check can help reduce a person’s risk of having another stroke. Many patients in the early stages of recovery may find it hard to swallow. You need to come with a diet plan that has a lot of soft foods or thicker liquids.
Don’t miss a medicine: A stroke can leave its survivors with many new medical issues. Depending upon the type of stroke, a patient will be prescribed antidepressants, Osteoporosis supplements and several other medicines. These medications are important to lower the odds of another stroke. Many care homes in the UK are automating their medication process by switching to electronic MAR. It’s a software that informs the care home workers about the list of medicines to be given to each resident. As it sends an alert when medicines are due, there is no chance of a missed dose.
Learn how eMAR can help your care home
eMAR automates the entire process and reduces the risk of human errors. The software can be customised as per the needs and requirements of your health care facility. It has the same template as that of MAR sheets, hence your care home staff won’t need much training. Learn how care homes in the UK are using electronic MAR at https://www.electronicmar.co.uk/emar/.
