Abstract
A patient with acute subarachnoid hemorrhage was seen for student physical therapy treatment for 15 sessions over 38 days at an acute care hospital under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist. The patient was assessed using the Functional Status Test for the Intensive Care Unit, the Physical Function Intensive Care Test - Scored, the Modified Iowa Level of Assistance scale, Rancho Los Amigos Observational Gait Analysis system, the Activity Measure for Post-Acute Care “6-Clicks” Basic Mobility Inpatient Short Form, and the VASOGRADE vasospasm scale. Strict blood and intracranial pressure parameters were maintained throughout. A comprehensive plan of care was established to address strength and endurance impairments, balance deficits, dependence for mobility and ambulation, reduced gait quality, and discharge status. Treatment goals aimed at maximizing motor control and task-specific endurance, improving gait quality, enhancing static and dynamic balance, and aiding activities of daily living. Main interventions consisted of task-specific therapeutic exercises focused on strength, motor control, and gait training. The patient exhibited improvements to basic mobility, endurance, independence with transfers, ambulation, and degree of disability and was discharged to home to the care of her family.