Our Services: Inpatient Programs

Amputee Program

Amputee Rehabilitation Program

The loss of a limb is an extremely traumatic experience, but our well structured program will help you to return to optimal functioning. The amputee program provides comprehensive treatment following your surgery, until you are ready to be discharged.

Your program is managed by a team of health professionals:

• Rehabilitation Physician
• Rehabilitation Nurses
• Physiotherapist
• Occupational Therapist
• Dietitian
• Prosthetist
• Case manager
• Psychologist

Your rehabilitation team meets regularly to review your progress and goals. You are part of the team and will be encouraged to participate in all aspects of your rehabilitation program.

Physiotherapy

Your physiotherapy program will be coordinated by a physiotherapist with training and interest in amputees and prosthetics and includes:

• If appropriate preparing your stump for a prosthesis. This includes learning how to apply an elastic bandage which will help shape the stump
• Exercises and gym work to help strengthen muscles and improve balance
• Gait retraining
• Ward based exercise program

Occupational therapy

Your Occupational Therapy program will assist you to reach your highest level of independence and quality of life.  Your Occupational Therapy program will involve practicing normal every day activities. These can include:

• Personal care activities
• Household tasks
• Energy conservation techniques
• Return to work and/or leisure assistance
• Return to driving

Your occupational therapist will also assist you in the use of aids or equipment to help you maintain your independence. They may visit your home prior to discharge to make recommendations to ensure a safe environment for you.

Nursing staff

Your nurses will encourage and assist you to achieve your optimal level of independence.  They provide 24 hour care and supervision and will help you with your daily ward activities. Daily wound assessment and monitoring is essential and your nurse will work with you to ensure your stump is healing well.

Your nurses continually liaise with your therapists to ensure continuity of your rehabilitation care and are always available to answer questions about your rehabilitation program, your medical care or other health concerns.

Medical services

Your rehabilitation program is directed by a Rehabilitation Physician with the medical assistance of a registrar. They have the responsibility of monitoring and evaluating your medical and rehabilitation care. The Rehabilitation Physician will liaise with your surgeon, General Practitioner and other specialists to ensure proper continuity of medical care.

Prosthetist

When your stump is fully healed and the swelling has diminished, the Rehabilitation Physician may prescribe a prosthesis for you and will refer you to a prosthetist. The prosthetist will cast and fit your prosthesis and ensure its correct alignment and stability.

Discharge

You will be discharged when you reach your potential or you no longer require nursing care.  If you require support at home, such as Meals on Wheels or Community Nursing this will be arranged prior to your discharge.

Your rehabilitation may continue through a day rehabilitation program or outpatient services. This will be discussed with you and your family prior to discharge to allow you to plan accordingly