Ventilator Care/WindStarPrograms and Services
Ventilator Care/WindStar
WindStar is a unique program for pulmonary patients that focuses on quality of life and reduces dependence on ventilators and other respiratory aids. An individualized plan is developed for each resident that takes into consideration the individual’s abilities, interests and goals. The emphasis is on improving the resident’s respiratory condition by drawing on a variety of disciplines — ranging from traditional physiological methodologies to less conventional biofeedback. The goal of the WindStar program is to maximize each patient’s quality of life, and whenever possible, to wean patients off ventilators and other pulmonary support systems.
WindStar units are staffed 24 hours a day with experienced and licensed respiratory therapists, as well as specially trained nurses. Board-certified pulmonologists (physicians who specialize in the treatment and management of the respiratory system) oversee the team and see patients up to five times a week, depending on individual needs and ability. They are also available ‘round the clock.
In some cases, the WindStar program assists individuals requiring ventilator care with the transition from hospital to home. Discharge to home becomes possible when a patient has been weaned from a ventilator or tracheotomy tube, or when family members are trained and available to provide the necessary level of support for home care.
Services
The WindStar program offers a comprehensive scope of services, including:
- Ventilator Weaning and Management
- Tracheotomy Care
- Bronchial Hygiene
- Oxygen Therapy and Monitoring
- On-site Monitoring of Arterial Blood Gases
- Nebulizer and Aerosol Treatments
- Patient/Family Respiratory Education
Patients
Many individuals admitted to the WindStar program are ventilator-dependent or require tracheotomy care. They are often being treated for respiratory impairments resulting from emphysema, spinal cord injuries, neuromuscular disorders, chronic bronchitis, severe stroke, head trauma or post-polio syndrome.
Staff
The WindStar program is designed to bring various departments together to work as a team to provide the highest level of care. Respiratory therapists and pulmonologists work closely with physical, occupational and speech therapists as well as the nursing staff to develop a total care plan that works best for each resident.
Equipment
The WindStar program offers state-of-the-art equipment that is compact and portable, allowing for greater resident mobility.
Facilities with Ventilator Care/WindStar
Ph: 773-286-3883 | Fx: 773-286-2128