Who are the guests at Bridges?

Guests at Bridges may be recovering from medical problems such as a stroke, major joint surgery, or even an injury such as a broken hip. Even if a surgery has been performed at another healthcare facility, Jersey Shore Hospital Bridges welcomes those in need of sub-acute care, in preparation for the return home.

Recovering at Bridges offers guests access to their local family physician, as well as family and friends in their local community. The care team at Jersey Shore Hospital believes that family and friends offer a positive impact on recovery and we welcome their support and participation in your care.

Physical Therapists work together with our guests care team to ensure a safe and complete recovery. Physical Therapists will help to:

• Regain range of motion
• Strengthen affected extremities
• Learn how to use the proper walking aids to maximize the ability to "live" independently

Because recovery does not end at Bridges, our Physical Therapists will educate guests and their loved ones on continuing recovery options at home.

Speech Therapy is offered to those who have difficulties with speaking and/or swallowing. The Speech Therapists at Jersey Shore Hospital will provide one-on-one care to our guests, allowing the achievement of the most effectively advanced speaking capabilities.

Occupational Therapy is skilled treatment to help guests of all ages with various limitations. This therapy is used to better achieve independence in completing daily work and leisure activities. These therapies may include:

• Training that utilizes adaptive equipment
• Fabrication of upper extremity orthotics
• Caregiver education and safety techniques

As our Bridges guests prepare to return home, an in-home assessment is provided by our staff. This assessment will offer recommendations on appropriate home modifications in increase safety.

The dedicated and caring nurses at Jersey Shore Hospital will provide an individualized plan of care that is based on each guest's personal needs. Our nurses regularly interact with the various care team members to ensure that every goal is met in the desired fashion. Our nursing team assists guests with any needs that may arise, while encouraging them to regain the independence needed to return home.

Our committed Social Service team serves as a liaison between Bridges guests and their families, as well as the care team. Our qualified Social Services Team also offers support in the following areas:

Emotional support to assist in recovery

• Individualized plans for home arrival
• Referrals for a variety of community services
• Assistance in obtaining recommended assistive equipment

At Jersey Shore Hospital Bridges, a variety of recreational activities are available for our guests to participate in. A certified professional will develop and implement activity groups to ensure guest safety and to promote independence. Each activity will be developed to satisfy the guest's interests, while creatively promoting rehabilitative goals.

Prior to a guest's arrival at Bridges, our Care Team will begin working on an individualized plan of care. This care plan involves input from many team members from various disciplines, depending on the guest's needs. Consultations with the attending physician and/or referring facility are also valued and used in the development of the individualized care plan. The Care Team meets regularly to ensure our guests goals are being met and that the planned recovery efforts are effective. Bridges guests and their loved ones are encouraged to attend and participate in these meetings.

For more information regarding Bridges, please call (570) 398-0100. We will be happy to discuss how our Care Team can help you regain independence. For referral or admissions information, please contact Carol Poorman, MSW, LSW.