A rehab fact: inaugural edition

Since we see lots of stuff in the media about cool technologies and procedures, did you ever want to know more?

Fear not, as a rehab nurse, here's my take (with a little help from our PTs) on some topics of interest.

Our first installment is about one of the hottest topics out there in rehab: exoskeletons. I worked with a general surgeon who actually said in a meeting, "We could solve every problem with our SCI patients if we could get them an exoskeleton, and what wonderful PR it would be for Madison as a whole."

My first thought: wow! Yes, exoskeletons ARE cool, but unfortunately, they don't work for everyone.

Here's a list of criteria (which is also on the website of one manufacturer)

1. You must be between 5'3"-6'3" tall. Too short or too tall disqualifies you.
2. You must be able to use a walker or crutches. Certain SCI patients who cannot grip adequately would be disqualified.
3. You cannot be over 220 lbs.
4. You have to meet bone density requirements.
5. You must have a companion with you at all times.

In general, cost is often a prohibitive factor with these devices, which can cost $70,000 and up. Another factor to consider: you need to plan on taking 20-25 minutes to both don and doff this device. As with any prosthetic device, proper use is crucial.

Finally, this technology will continue to evolve. Nurses, don't just think it's for your SCI patients, you very well could be using this daily in your own tasks on the job. If so, the concept of robonurse might not be so far behind. Baymax here we come!

I hope you enjoyed this discussion about a current rehab topic. Feel free to share your thought or ideas for the next installment.

Stay tuned!

Sunday stealing...

Ask Me Meme from "Just keep swimming." -Dorthy, Finding Nemo



1:What was the last argument you had about?
Putting dishes away.

2:How long is your longest relationship?
Almost a lifetime: I've got a couple of friends I've known that long.

3:What is something not many people know about you?
I can crochet.

4:Two truths and a lie. Go.
Ice cream is cold.
Snow is cold.
Coffee must be served hot.

5:Do you believe in fate/destiny?
Yes. I do.

6:Where is somewhere you’ve always wanted to live?
New York or Washington DC for a short defined period.

7:Has there ever been a song that made you cry?
A couple.

8:Do you jump/scare easily?
No.

9:Which birthday has been your favorite?
21. Had lots of fun.

10:Have you ever been pulled over? Arrested?
Pulled over-yes. Arrested-never.

11:Have you ever been to a fortune teller?
No.

12:What’s your favorite series of books?
The Chronicles of Narnia are some of my favorites.

13:Who is someone that you think knows the most about you outside of family?
My best friend.

14:What is the weirdest thing you’ve eaten?
Octopus.

15:List one of your quirks.
I like coffee first thing in the AM.

16:State 1 bad habit of yours.
I snore.

17:Has a scary movie ever given you nightmares?
Yes.

18:When was the last time you got your hair done in a salon?
I go on a regular basis.

19:What was the last thing you did with your friends?
We went out for dinner.

20:What’s something that you like to do that others might see as weird?
I like to do laundry.

21:What was the last trip you took?
I went to Chicago for work.