Our focus is on improving the patient’s pulmonary capacity, and maximizing their functional abilities.

The program is designed to increase independent functioning, improve psychological and physical well-being, thus enabling individuals to return home sooner.

In every aspect our intent and focus is on the individual needs, interests and potential of the patient and family.

This program is geared toward patients with:

• Asthma
• AQLS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis)
• COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
• Emphysema
• End Stage Respiratory Failure
• Pneumonia
• Pulmonary Fibrosis
• Respiratory Failure

Patient Education

Northwoods Care Centre offers a broad range of skilled services designed to maximize the functional abilities of our patients, enabling them to reach their highest level of independence.

Many of our success stories highlight our patient’s return to home and community to live productive lives. Family members are encouraged to participate in the rehabilitation process to help enhance the therapies and preparation for discharge home.

Upon entering the Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program, patients are educated on the modules they will be participating in during their residence in our facility.

Topics covered include:

• Orientation
• Understanding the disease process
• Stress management
• Individualized exercise programs
• Recognition and prevention of complications
• Energy conservation
• Breathing re-training
• Nutrition/swallowing education
• Standing endurance group
• Chair exercise
• Sleep management
• Fatigue/Dyspnea self-assessment education
• Self-care and caregiver training
• Discharge planning

Additional educational material is also provided that is a helpful reference source.

Personalized Treatment

The interdisciplinary team of professionals works with the patient and family to develop an individualized care plan. This treatment plan includes advanced therapeutic techniques and exercises to enhance and maintain muscle strength and endurance, promote energy conservation, and improve coordination. This personalized plan of care enables the patient to reach optimal functional levels while considering each individual’s respiratory condition.

Physicians provide on-site management. Nurses skilled in complex medical management and rehabilitation monitor pulmonary status, vital signs, lab values, and nutritional status. The management of intravenous therapies, oxygen therapy, and nutritional status is provided by our staff of registered nurses, and the availability of an advanced practiced nurse. Respiratory therapists assess, educate and consult on the needs of our patients. Physical and occupational therapists focus on exercise, ambulation, breathing re-training and independent living skills. Speech and language pathologists provide education on swallowing, breathing and speaking coordination.

Treatment modalities available:

• Artificial airway maintenance
• Chest physiotherapy
• Continuous humidified high flow oxygen therapy
• CPAP/BiPAP
• Comprehensive pulmonary drug treatments
• Incentive spirometry
• Nebulized medication treatments
• Pulse oximetry
• Tracheostomy care and decannulation