Physical Therapy Management of a Non-Ambulatory Female with Sepsis in a Skilled Nursing Facility: A Retrospective Case Report

Background/purpose: Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that can affect multiple organs resulting in impaired physical and cognitive function that can persist for many years following the resolution of sepsis. There is limited research on the benefits of physical therapy rehabilitation after a patient with sepsis is discharged from a hospital to a skilled nursing facility. The purpose of this case report is to describe the functional outcomes and the effectiveness of physical therapy using a multicomponent intervention approach for a non-ambulatory female with sepsis in a skilled nursing facility after seven weeks of physical therapy. Case Description: The patient was an 82-year-old Caucasian female with a medical diagnosis of sepsis bacteremia. The patient presented to physical therapy with decreased bilateral lower extremity strength and range of motion, impaired balance, low back and knee pain, difficulty with bed mobility and transfers, and inability to ambulate. A multicomponent exercise program was incorporated into the patient’s plan of care. Outcomes: After seven weeks of physical therapy, the patient made improvements in bilateral lower extremity strength, right knee flexion range of motion, balance, bed mobility, transfers, gait, and decreased low back and knee pain. The patient was unexpectedly discharged to the hospital. Discussion: This case report demonstrates the functional benefits of a multicomponent physical therapy rehabilitation program for a non-ambulatory female with sepsis in a skilled nursing facility. The results from this study are consistent with other studies’ findings on the effectiveness of a multicomponent exercise program for the older adult population