Judy Watts' ARU Recovery Story
June 6, 2023
Judy Watts entered the EAMC-Lanier Emergency Department with complaints including generalized weakness, fatigue and a fall at home.
She was found to be severely septic with a UTI. Her hospitalization was complicated by a-fib and respiratory failure requiring supplemental oxygen and BIPAP. Her stay was further complicated by an ICU stay with mechanical ventilation and required bilateral ureteral stents due to stones.
Prior to this hospitalization, Judy was independent and helped care for her great grandson each day. Watts stated she had no idea how sick she was.
Being from the Valley area, she was already familiar with the Acute Rehab Unit (ARU) at EAMC-Lanier and said, “If I was going to do rehab, I was going to do it here.”
While at the ARU, Watts initially required help to roll over in bed, was unable to dress her lower body or transfer to a toilet. She was not able to even take a step before arriving at rehab. Due to her significant decline, she required physical and occupational therapy at rehab.
With a mixture of excitement, nervousness and determination, Watts began her rehabilitation process.
Over her 14-day stay, her medical team managed her antibiotics and arrhythmias and helped wean her off all supplemental oxygen. At the time of her discharge, Watts was able to walk community distances, climb a full flight of steps and perform all of her self-care without any physical assistance.
Watts is most looking forward to seeing her great grandson. When asked what she would say to other rehab patients she shared, “Good luck and work hard!”
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