Keeping a Health Journal

By Faith Protsman, MD, Regional Medical Director, VITAS HealthcareTwo recent studies highlight how sepsis impact often extends well beyond the acute event that led to a patients hospitalization. The studies emphasize two particular points that should inform physicians and clinicians as they consider referring these patients to specialized care: Medicare patient data gathered between 2012-2017 shows that sepsis patients face considerably poorer health outcomes following hospital discharge when compared to non-sepsis patients, including elevated risk for death and increased use of advanced healthcare services. Sepsis survivors exhibit strong indicators of persistent inflammation and immunosuppression for up to a year after hospital discharge, increasing their risk of readmission or death. Both studies indicate a significantly elevated risk of death among sepsis patients after they have been discharged and ostensibly cured. Of course, sepsis patientsparticularly those of the Medicare cohort, who are largely of advanced agerarely leave the hospital in better condition than they entered.The Yende study, in particular, shows that neuroendocrine and inflammatory responses to sepsis can continue long after the patient survives a septic episode. For patients with advanced or chronic diseasesas was the case with nearly 78% of participants in the studythese biomarkers are associated with decline.Post-sepsis Discharge: A Critical JunctureIn many cases, these individuals life expectancies upon discharge will be less than six months. This is a critical juncture: While comfort-focused hospice care could provide an ideal source of support for the eligible patient, their family, and their caregiver(s), most sepsis patients are simply sent home without even a discussion about palliative end-of-life care and its benefits.Frankly, such an oversight is a disservice to everyone involved. The sepsis patient is left with physical and/or cognitive dysfunction, often without significant options for symptom management. Their partner or family will either need to assume caregiving duties or turn to costly private services. And the physician and hospital staff will likely see the patient again following another acute event, a readmission that impacts performance scores, strains resources, and unnecessarily fills beds.By no means do I intend to lay the blame for these unfortunate circumstances on physicians. Timely hospice referrals require ongoing education about end-of-life care, and open, ongoing communication between hospice providers and referral sources.More Help: How to Talk About Hospice Care >Those of us in hospice are working hard to bridge the gap, but even as our healthcare system transitions to a value-based model, the mentality of fee-for-service still permeates our nations acute-care facilities, and many hospitalists see a discharge home as a success.Hospice: A New Way Of Judging SuccessIn hospice, we judge our successes on the patients quality of life and the fulfillment of their goals and wishes near lifes end. Usually, that means going home with 24/7 support from an interdisciplinary hospice team. Whether home is a traditional residence, an assisted living facility, or nursing home, the hospice team will assist caregivers (and/or facility staff) with direct clinical care and education, integrative services, bereavement support, and delivery of medication, equipment, and supplies.In other cases, improving quality of life means remaining in a general inpatient setting with hospice support, taking the burden off hospital staff until the patient is able to transition home or until the patient dies. Hospice offers complex modalities in any setting, so patients who would otherwise be confined to an ICU can usually return home to be among loved ones.With support from hospice, a sepsis patient and their family are more likely to report higher satisfaction of care and greater quality of life. The patients emotional and spiritual needs can be met alongside their physical needs, thanks to care from chaplains, social workers, music and massage therapists, and other integrative specialists. Finally, the patient is more likely to die at home, surrounded by loved ones, rather than in the hospital.Because sepsis is most common in patients with advanced or chronic diseases that indicate hospice eligibility, acute incidences of sepsis should always trigger a hospice eligibility assessment. We owe it to our patients, their loved ones, and our colleagues in healthcare, all of whom can benefit from the support that timely end-of-life care offers. 

Costly Mistakes to Avoid When Remodeling Your Bathroom Whether you need a quick tub update or a complete bathroom remodel, there are some design mistakes that add time, money, and stress(!) to your renovation. Here are seven common bathroom remodeling errors you can avoid, keeping your home renovation project moving smoothly. Mistake #1: Starting Without a Plan When it comes to any home remodeling projectplanning is everything. But because bathrooms are often the smallest rooms in the home, preparation is particularly important to prevent costly bathroom design mistakes. Bathroom remodeling happens in stages. And if you dont plan ahead, you can encounter unnecessary delays. For example, if the materials arent available for the plumbing, the electrical projects will have to wait. Working without a timeline can disrupt the workflow and delay your bathroom remodel by days or even weeks. The Solution: Hire ReBath who provides start-to-finish bathroom remodeling services. From the in-home consultation and custom bathroom design to removal and installation, our team handles every aspect of your bathroom remodel. And because bathrooms are all we do. We have the skills and experience to manage your project efficiently. Mistake #2: Not Allowing Proper Clearance Proper measurements and a functional layout are essential to ensure your space flows properly. Your bathroom layout should allow for easy navigation and convenient access to storage, outlets, and light switches. Showers, tubs, and vanities that are too big for the space can impede foot traffic and overwhelm the room, or they may prevent you from opening and closing doors and drawers. And if you or a loved one uses a wheelchair or walker, youll need additional clearance to move and turn, so consider a shower or tub with wider doors to accommodate these mobility aids. The Solution: If youve never tackled an extensive home renovation project, leave the details to a professional bathroom design consultant. Because they have experience managing projects of all sizes and scales, they can recommend bathtubs, showers, and vanities that are ideally suited for the proportions of the room. ReBath offers a free, in-home design consultation where well measure your space and discuss what is right for your bathroom, and your budget. Mistake #3: Choosing Impractical Materials As one of the most-used rooms in the house, bathrooms undergo considerable wear and tear, including exposure to high moisture and frequent temperature changes. It is important to select durable, water-resistant materials that are made specifically for bathrooms. The bathroom is one room where you dont want to cut corners. Certain fixtures and surfaces may be cheaper upfront but can cost you more in the end if they become damaged or cause a leak. The Solution: Do your research on practical, bathroom-friendly materials. Look for surfaces that are attractive, non-porous, and easy to clean. ReBaths proprietary DuraBath acrylic and natural stone waterproof wall surrounds resist mold and mildewand are as easy on the eyes as they are to take care of. And our tub liners are manufactured to fit your tub perfectly, eliminating gaps and cracks. Plus, we dont use grout to seal our products, offering a seamless look that prevents leaks.  Mistake #4: Forgetting About StorageIts fun to pick out tile, vanities, and fixturesbut dont forget about practical storage solutions. If you dont incorporate storage into your bathroom remodel design, youll end up with cluttered countertops and messy, overstuffed drawers. The Solution: Storage solutions dont have to be bulky or take up too much space. Opt for a vanity with plenty of drawer space to keep cosmetics, toiletries, or linens close but out of sight. We offer curated, custom designs by Jenny Marrs, our National ReBath Designer, that provide timeless, yet updated stylesincluding vanities with plenty of storage space. There are many budget-friendly, attractive shelving and storage products to store soaps, shampoos, and body washes in the shower or tub area. Or you can build a storage nook right in your shower. Mistake #5: Hiring Too Many Contractors There is such a thing as too many contractors for one home remodeling project. Farming out various aspects of your remodel to several different companies can complicate your timeline and add to your budget. Scheduling and communicating with multiple contractors can also be a time-consuming headache. The Solution: Consider hiring a company that offers top-to-bottom bathroom remodeling solutions. When you work with a company that provides design, removal, and installation, your project is more likely to stay on time and budget. At ReBath, we handle the entire process, from design to done. We assign one dedicated crew to your project, and if an issue arises that is beyond their scope, they notify the consumer immediately and assist them in resolving it quickly and efficiently. Mistake #6: Using a One-Day Bathroom Remodeling Service The promise of a quick, efficient bathroom makeover is appealing, and one-day bathroom remodeling services promote their fast turnaround, claiming to minimize hassle and disruption. However, rapid bathroom renovations also have hidden pitfalls and unanticipated risks. Their bathroom remodel costs are often lower than full bathroom remodels, partly because the changes are at surface level. They dont address underlying issues like unseen water damage or outdated plumbing, and often rely on prefabricated or off-the-shelf products, limiting your choice in materials, styles, and finishes. In addition, the quality of installation is generally substandard. All of this can potentially lead to problems or the need for repairs sooner than expected. The Solution: Sometimes, the most efficient, cost-effective remodel is a full bathroom remodel. At ReBath, we offer a streamlined bathroom remodeling process, high quality supplies and materials, and an experienced team that enables us to do most renovations in 2-5 days, not weeks. We start the process with a free, in-home design consultation, where an experienced designer will listen to your wish list, evaluate your space, and help bring the vision to life. They can also bring you ideas, help you sort through the different materials and fixtures, and ensure your new bathrooms function is as good as its form. Mistake #7: Overlooking Accessibility FeaturesA bathroom remodel is an investmentwell-designed, high-quality vanities, tubs, toilets, and showers are built to last for years to come. So, when you plan your bathroom refresh, consider how your needs may change in the future. ReBath offers a range of aging and accessibility bathroom features designed to help mature adults and those with limited mobility utilize the bathroom as safely and as independently as possible. The Solution: While many mobility and accessibility products can be installed as needed, you can also choose ReBath ADA-compliant walk-in bathtubs, low edge shower bases, and built-in seating for comfort and safety from day one. Slip-resistant flooring and grab bars in attractive styles and finishes add another layer of support and fall-protection for individuals of all ages. Mistake #8: DIY-ing a Job for the Professionals Tackling home DIY projects can be enjoyable and rewarding, but if you are new to remodeling, it may be best to leave your bathroom update to the professionals. Bathroom remodels require interior design experience and technical skillsnot to mention licensed plumbers and electricians. Sure you can save some money tackling the project on your own, but mistakes in the bathroom can be incredibly costly in the long run and require remediation. Hiring the right contractor can give you the bathroom of your dreamson time and on budget. The Solution:  Hand over the tools to a professional bathroom design company like ReBath. We are committed to completing your project within days, not weeks. And we provide everything you need for the perfect bathroom, from design to installation. Before you know it, youll be soaking your cares away in your gorgeous new bathroom! You dont have to make these bathroom remodel mistakes. Let the experts at ReBath oversee handle every detail of your project. Call us or connect online to schedule a free design consultation today. Schedule Your Free Design Consultation Today!  Experience the ease of transforming your bathroom with ReBath. Schedule your free, in-home design consultation today.  Contact Re-Bath Mobile at 251-220-9284.

Living independently is a priority for many veterans, and VA home care services make that possible. These services are designed to provide essential support, helping veterans manage daily tasks while staying in the comfort of their own homes. From assistance with personal care to meal preparation and mobility support, VA home care services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.Beyond physical assistance, these services also offer emotional support and companionship, promoting a sense of independence and dignity. With professional caregivers handling everyday challenges, veterans can focus on their well-being and enjoy life with confidence. VA home care services are a valuable resource for fostering independence and improving the quality of life for those who served.The Role of VA homecare services in Independent LivingIndependent living is crucial for veterans, and homecare services are designed to support this goal. These services help veterans manage their daily routines, such as personal hygiene, meal preparation, and mobility assistance, all within the comfort of their homes.By providing personalized care tailored to their needs, veterans can maintain their independence without feeling overwhelmed. VA homecare services also offer families peace of mind, knowing their loved ones are in capable, compassionate hands. This support helps veterans thrive in a safe and dignified environment.How VA home care services Empower Veterans at HomeFor veterans, the ability to stay at home while receiving the care they need is life-changing. VA homecare services offer comprehensive support, from household chores to specialized personal care, ensuring veterans maintain control over their lives.With expert caregivers providing tailored assistance, veterans can focus on enjoying their independence without the stress of managing everything alone. This balance creates a supportive environment, fostering confidence and a higher quality of life.VA homecare services Promoting Safe IndependenceSafety and independence go hand in hand, and VAhomecareservices prioritize both. Whether its help with mobility, medication reminders, or maintaining a clean living space, these services are designed to ensure veterans can live safely and comfortably.This assistance not only reduces risks but also allows veterans to maintain their sense of autonomy. Families can rest easy knowing their loved ones are supported by professionals who truly care. VA homecare services make independent living a reality.The Benefits of VA homecare services for VeteransVA homecare services are a lifeline for veterans striving to live independently. By offering help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and meal preparation, these services alleviate the burdens of everyday life.More importantly, they enable veterans to maintain their dignity and independence while receiving the support they need. Families also benefit, knowing their loved ones are well cared for in a familiar environment. VA homecare services bring comfort and peace of mind to all involved.Supporting Independence with VA homecare servicesVeterans who wish to age in place often face challenges, but VA homecare services provide a solution. From mobility support to assistance with personal care, these services ensure that veterans can live comfortably in their own homes.This professional care fosters independence and confidence, empowering veterans to lead fulfilling lives. Families, too, feel reassured knowing that their loved ones are safe and supported every step of the way.How VA home care services Enhance Everyday LifeVA homecare services go beyond just providing helpthey enhance the daily lives of veterans. Whether its preparing meals, keeping the home tidy, or offering companionship, these services are tailored to fit each individuals needs.By handling these tasks, caregivers create an environment where veterans can focus on their health and happiness. This support ensures veterans can maintain independence while enjoying the comfort of their own homes.VA homecare services Making Independent Living PossibleIndependent living is a cornerstone of dignity and freedom, and VA homecare services make it possible. Through assistance with daily activities and emotional support, veterans can remain self-reliant in the comfort of their homes.These services not only help with physical needs but also promote a sense of empowerment and confidence. Families can trust that their loved ones are cared for with respect and professionalism.Creating Confidence Through VA homecare servicesConfidence is key to living independently, and VA homecare services help veterans build and maintain it. By offering personalized care that addresses daily challenges, these services empower veterans to take control of their lives.This level of support also eases the burden on families, allowing them to enjoy more meaningful time with their loved ones. VA homecare services provide a foundation for safe, independent living that benefits everyone.VA homecare services Fostering Dignity and IndependenceMaintaining dignity is crucial for veterans, and VA homecare services are designed to foster it. By providing assistance with everyday tasks like bathing, dressing, and meal preparation, these services enable veterans to live with independence and confidence.The care provided is more than practicalits compassionate, ensuring veterans feel respected and valued. This focus on dignity and independence enhances their overall well-being.Why VA homecare services Matter for VeteransVeterans deserve the chance to live independently, and VA homecare services make that possible. From help with household chores to personalized care, these services create a supportive environment tailored to individual needs.This professional assistance allows veterans to focus on their well-being and enjoy the comfort of their homes. Families also benefit, knowing their loved ones are receiving reliable, compassionate care. VA homecare services truly make a difference in the lives of those who served.Improving Daily Life with VA homecare servicesVA homecare services provide the support veterans need to thrive at home. From managing daily tasks to offering companionship and mobility assistance, these services help create a safe and comfortable living environment.Veterans can maintain their independence while receiving personalized care that meets their unique needs. Families, too, gain peace of mind knowing their loved ones are cared for with compassion and respect.How VA home care services Build a Better TomorrowVA homecare services do more than address immediate needsthey lay the foundation for a brighter future. By offering tailored support, these services empower veterans to live confidently and independently in their homes.This care not only reduces stress for veterans but also strengthens the bond with their families, ensuring everyone enjoys a higher quality of life. VA homecare services are a pathway to improved well-being and lasting independence.Living independently is a vital part of maintaining dignity and quality of life, and VA home care services play a key role in making that possible. These services provide veterans with the personalized support they need to thrive in the comfort of their own homes. From daily assistance to companionship, VA home care services create a foundation for safe and fulfilling independent living.At Home Matters Caregiving PAOH, we are proud to serve the veterans of Pittsburgh, PA, with compassionate and professional care tailored to their needs. Let us help your loved ones maintain their independence and enjoy the life they deserve. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your family with trusted VA home care services.