He identified Janey Barthelette, RRT, coordinator of the pulmonary rehab program at Penabscot Bay, as a special therapist who excels at establishing rapport with her patients. It is so obvious to patients that she cares about them. When she was developing the hospital's rehab program, she incorporated two steps emphasizing the importance of getting to know patients into the introductory phase. First, she contacts prospective rehab patients by phone when she receives their referral. During the phone interview she invites them to a two-hour orientation session to introduce them to staff members and program activities.
Patients also complete baseline testing that day.
We take as much time as they need. Part of the process is connecting with the patient as an individual, with respect and caring. She explores their life issues as well as their pulmonary status and encourages patients to ask questions. Because Barthelette considers the patient's level of motivation, she sometimes accepts patients who are physically marginal. Although the initial interview requires a lot of work, Barthelette believes the time is well spent.