Nursing Case Study - Agnes' Story
Prior to arriving at Rectory House, Agnes had been in hospital for seven months. She had spent a long time in intensive care after major surgery and doctors did not have high hopes for her recovery. When they suggested she be admitted for palliative care, it was with uncertainty about her future and low expectations for any improvement in her health.
Rectory House was an ideal option for Agnes, being located close to the family home, enabling her husband to visit with ease. Initially it was chosen as the right location for Agnes to see out her remaining days in comfort.
However, Agnes’ move to Rectory House gave her low spirits a much needed boost. The nursing team at the home saw her potential for recovery and worked closely with Agnes and her husband to put in place a care plan with an aim of not just making her comfortable, but supporting her to recover.
Small things made a big difference. While at hospital Agnes had not dressed each day, but simply remained in hospital gowns. Her mobility had also deteriorated significantly. Appreciating the importance of her mobility and appearance to her personal confidence, the team at Rectory House focussed on getting Agnes on her feet and having her choose her own clothes. Slowly she began to become stronger physically, as she was continually encouraged to be as independent as possible.
As Agnes gradually gained strength, she began to walk to the family home with her husband on occasional afternoons, and would sometimes then stay the night. She returned to picking an outfit and applying her make up each day, growing in confidence and returning to the life she had enjoyed before her admission to hospital.
Agnes has now recovered so well that she has gone home permanently to live with her husband. Her health has greatly improved and she enjoys her lunch with a glass of wine each day. She maintains that the love, care and attention that she received at Rectory House has helped her to get her life back.
Agnes’s story is just one example of the dedicated care and support the team at Rectory House provides every day. If you would like to learn more about the variety of care provision available at Rectory House, please call our Home Manager on 0808 223 5530