RON

HEART VALVE INFECTION, PERI-AORTIC ABSCESS, AND BLOOD INFECTION

SERVICES: Antibiotic Therapy

DIAGNOSIS: Endocarditis, Abcess, and Sepsis

CHALLENGES

Ron became sick shortly after celebrating his wife's retirement and their wedding anniversary. He was in the intensive care unit for blood and heart valve infection in addition to an abscess found in his heart. To further complicate his therapy, Ron was allergic to the class of medication that would best treat his infection.

SOLUTIONS

Ron had to go through "desensitization" therapy before receiving the drug of choice for his infection while in the hospital. The severity of his infection and complex treatment qualified Ron to stay in a skilled nursing facility – however he and his wife were "too young" and "too motivated" and wanted to do home infusion instead. With a complicated therapy, Kris Gillard, RHI's Clinical Nurse Manager worked closely and taught Ron and his wife how to implement the treatment at home. With the help of Steven Ly's, Pharm.D., diligent clinical monitoring, follow up, and support, Ron and his wife did not miss any more days at home, enjoying their retirement, together.

RESULTS

Healing at home is best especially with your loved one. Ron was able to spend time at home with his family while receiving treatment for a complicated heart and blood infection. His wife was there with him, helping administer his IV medication, and planning their next trip together.