A patient's wish inspires occupational therapist to create a pop-up shop

A care team at Ascension St. Vincent’s Clay County in Middleburg, FL worked together to help a patient recover from a 100-day stay at the hospital. The journey of recovery unfolded when an unconscious man was found outside his home. His critical condition required immediate intubation to open up his airway. As the days turned into months, a dedicated team of over 20 hospitalists, specialists, nurses and rehabilitation therapists worked together to support his recovery.

Physical, speech and occupational therapists developed a rehabilitation plan to help him regain strength and mobility, and perform basic tasks. During his over 100-day stay, Kaitlyn Vonk, an inpatient occupational therapist, played a pivotal role in improving the patient’s executive function and organizational skills.

“Over a lifetime, we learn skills that help us to plan and juggle multiple tasks, all of which are needed to successfully accomplish everyday tasks, like brushing our teeth or planning activities,” she explained. “Some patients with neurological conditions need to relearn these skills.”

With no family in the area, the care team rallied around the patient. When he expressed a simple wish to go shopping at Walmart, Kaitlyn saw an opportunity to help him practice tasks he would encounter in real life. She created a simulated shopping experience within the hospital. She purchased pajamas and everyday items and created a pop-up shop in the gym.

During the therapy session, the patient walked around the “store” picking up items from the cubby holes. “This activity combined gross and fine motor skills, like walking and reaching for items, with those that would allow him to live independently, such as managing money,” she said.

Kaitlyn said this exercise was more than just therapy; it was a bridge to his independence. She plans to incorporate similar therapeutic interventions in the future.

“This experience allowed me to witness the benefit of using activities meaningful to the patient to guide the rehabilitation process,” Kaitlyn said. “Being able to simulate a shopping trip and meet the patient's needs enabled his progress towards independence.”

This patient’s journey reflects St. Vincent’s Clay County’s commitment to treating patients holistically, recognizing that every recovery is a shared journey of perseverance and care.