After more than 100 days in hospital, 4A patient Bec is getting a second chance at life thanks to the dedicated multidisciplinary team at QEII.
Bec’s QEII journey started in June, when she was rushed to the ED after suffering multiple falls at home.
Between a knee injury, several comorbidities and communication barriers, the team knew it would be a long road to recovery for Bec.
Determined to get Bec back on her feet, the team put their expertise together to develop a holistic care plan.
Occupational Therapist (OT) Mia Despot says it was the multidisciplinary team’s collective experience and commitment to supporting Bec’s clinical, social, and allied health needs that saw her through every challenge.
“It’s been a really organised process between all the different teams, including the involvement of the BeST [Behaviour Support Team], Disability Advocacy Pathways [Pathways] service, and ComPASS [Complex Patients Advisory Support Service] teams, who are really specialised in what they do,” she said.
After multiple surgeries, complications and a rollercoaster of emotions, it was the sustained support of the MDT that saw Bec’s condition steadily improve, both clinically and socially.
“Our team’s biggest strength is that we communicate and collaborate well. We problem-solve together as a team and keep each other updated.
“That went a long way to getting us the results we wanted for Bec, from holding regular discharge planning meetings, to coordinating supports through the NDIS to get her accommodation, equipment and social supports in place, and getting her into a routine and managing behaviours. It was a whole team effort.”
Having worked closely with Bec since her first day in hospital, Mia saw her through the best and worst days, and says she is heartened by the progress Bec continues to demonstrate.
“From an OT perspective, getting Bec back into engaging in some of her personal cares as well as socialising again was a big win. She went from being bedridden and withdrawn, to sitting outside every day, socialising with everyone, doing puzzles, and having a routine again,” said Mia.
It’s a bittersweet goodbye to the supportive team at 4A, as Bec looks forward to going home for the first time in four months.
“The biggest win is that Bec now gets to go home and continue working on her goals at her new SIL [Supported Independent Living] home, and all the supports she needs are set up for her,” said Mia.
“We’re so happy to see Bec moving into a new environment, continue to thrive and keep building on the progress she’s made here at QEII.”
Congratulations to the whole team on this mammoth effort!