Reason for Services
Why is Emily receiving OT services?
She is recovering from a left CVA with right flaccid hemiparesis, requiring maximal assistance for basic ADLs and infant care.
What is Emily’s profession?
Freelance photographer.
Who lives with Emily?
Her husband Miguel and their newborn daughter Sofia.
What motor impairment does Emily have post-stroke?
Flaccid hemiparesis on her right side.
What is Emily’s primary short-term goal?
Regain independence in basic self-care activities like bathing and dressing.
When did Emily experience her stroke?
She had a stroke two weeks postpartum after giving birth to her daughter, Sofia.
Name two hobbies Emily enjoyed before her stroke.
Gardening and yoga.
What physical barriers are present at Emily’s home?
Stairs at the entrance with no ramp; standard bathroom layout without adaptations.
How does flaccid hemiparesis differ from spastic hemiparesis?
Flaccid hemiparesis involves very low muscle tone and absent voluntary movement; limbs are floppy.
What long-term goal is tied to her role as a new mother?
Return to safely and independently caring for Sofia.
What symptoms prompted Miguel to bring Emily to the hospital?
Struggling to speak clearly and inability to move her right arm and leg.
What new role was Emily most excited about before her stroke?
Starting “mommy and me” classes with her newborn.
What family support does Emily currently have?
Miguel and her retired parents (her mother is staying with them temporarily).
Why is flaccid hemiparesis dangerous in terms of joint health?
Increases risk of shoulder subluxation and joint instability.
Why is addressing emotional health important in Emily’s rehab?
Her frustration and role loss as a mother could impact motivation and progress.
What medical conditions may have contributed to Emily’s stroke?
Pregnancy-induced hypertension and gestational diabetes
How did Emily balance family and work life?
She scheduled photography sessions around her family time on weekends.
What safety concern exists inside the home?
A standard tub-shower combo bathroom without adaptations.
How does flaccid hemiparesis impact her caregiving role?
She cannot safely lift, hold, or carry her infant without significant assistance.
What adaptations might help Emily engage in infant care tasks sooner?
Adaptive equipment for safe infant handling, energy conservation strategies.
Why is early intervention critical for Emily’s condition?
To prevent complications like shoulder subluxation and to maximize functional recovery through early neuroplastic changes.
How could her photography hobby be used therapeutically?
Incorporating photography activities into therapy to rebuild fine motor and visual-motor integration skills.
What personal strengths does Emily possess that aid her recovery?
Motivation to return to infant caregiving, strong social support, and engagement in meaningful roles.
What therapy focus is critical early on for flaccid hemiparesis?
Positioning, joint protection, passive range of motion, and gradual facilitation of active movement.
How can OT interventions restore Emily’s sense of purpose and identity?
Focusing on meaningful occupations like motherhood, photography, and community reengagement.