When Holly’s husband Marc reached out to Cavendish Homecare as Holly neared her hospital discharge, his need for practical support to bring her home was desperate. He remembered a positive experience in 2022, when a Cavendish Homecare carer had previously supported Holly. Now, faced with Holly’s extensive medical history, which included two stomas, a RIG, a Hickman line, and a pacemaker, Marc knew he needed expert, compassionate care, particularly concerning the specialised aspects of her recovery.
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Our Client’s Story…
Marc’s most immediate concern wasn’t just Holly’s profound weakness after prolonged hospitalisation, which left her unable to walk unaided; it was also the intricate and sensitive management of her complex medical needs. He needed help with her daily morning routine – getting Holly out of bed, washed, dressed, and into her wheelchair each morning. Crucially, this assistance had to include professional and empathetic support, ensuring meticulous hygiene and addressing any issues that might arise during her transition back home. Holly required a carer to assist her from 10.00 to 13.00, Monday to Friday, with a particular emphasis on managing her stoma care effectively.
The Cavendish Approach…
Cavendish Homecare responded swiftly to Marc’s request, implementing a bespoke care plan designed to support Holly’s comprehensive rehabilitation and daily needs, with stoma care integrated as a primary focus. A dedicated carer was assigned to provide consistent support for three hours each weekday, ensuring continuity and specialist knowledge. Holly’s care plan remained flexible, adapting not only to her evolving mobility but also to her specific stoma management requirements and any unexpected daily challenges.
Each morning, the carer would assist Marc with Holly’s personal care, including washing and dressing. This collaborative approach was vital, especially when unexpected issues arose, such as leakage from Holly’s stoma bag. Marc, who typically managed the stoma with the carer’s assistance, found this collaborative expertise invaluable, ensuring that such sensitive situations were handled promptly, professionally, and with utmost discretion and infection control. Despite Holly experiencing pain in her feet (attended to by a podiatrist), the carer ensured her comfort during all personal care, including when managing the areas around her stomas.
Beyond the critical stoma care, mobility support was also a crucial component of her care. During mealtimes, Holly required transfer via a stand aid to her wheelchair and to the kitchen. The carer engaged in Holly’s walking exercises within the limited space, and on days Holly preferred not to walk, foot exercises were provided instead, demonstrating the adaptability of the care. Holly also received assistance with her inhaler for breathlessness whenever needed.
Throughout the care, communication was key. Holly communicated very well, and the carer consistently sought her permission and followed her instructions, respecting her autonomy, particularly around sensitive procedures like stoma care. Infection control was rigorously maintained through the consistent use of protective equipment, ensuring Holly’s health and safety were paramount.
The Outcome…
Holly’s journey illustrates Cavendish Homecare’s dedication to providing highly personalised and adaptable care, particularly for clients transitioning home with complex medical requirements, including extensive stoma management. The initial care phase focused on essential morning routines, rehabilitation, and meticulous stoma care. This directly met Marc’s immediate needs and greatly reduced his caregiving burden. Cavendish Homecare’s consistent support came from an experienced carer. This carer was equipped to handle Holly’s multifaceted health profile. Her support empowered Holly to make significant progress in her mobility. Daily exercises and effective use of aids like a stand aid reinforced this. This approach enabled Holly to regain mobility while her sensitive stoma needs were met with dignity and expertise.
Disclaimer: For privacy and confidentiality reasons, the names and locations in this case study have been changed. The events and outcomes described are based on real situations, but identifying details have been altered.
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