Home for Christmas: Robert’s path to recovery with Paget at Home

Robert was referred to HomeLink Healthcare’s Paget at Home service in December 2023 after developing an infection following coronary artery bypass surgery. He had undergone the bypass three years earlier and recovered well initially. However, in December 2023, he started experiencing pain in his right leg, which prompted a return to the hospital. After tests, the doctors discovered a blockage and needed to place an artificial graft to restore blood flow.

Unfortunately, a few days after the procedure, Robert developed an infection. The initial plan was to manage the infection with medication, but when that didn’t work, the doctors recommended a course of intravenous antibiotics. This meant an extended hospital stay, just as Christmas was approaching. Robert was understandably concerned about being away from home for such a long period of time but was relieved when he learned that HomeLink could continue his treatment at home.

The next day, on Christmas Day, Robert began receiving his antibiotic treatment from the comfort of his home, administered through a PICC line. Each session required two antibiotics, with the whole process taking about two hours. While the treatment was time-consuming, being at home allowed Robert to return to a sense of normality and spend his time with loved ones.

“It’s been very good. They’ve been coming here every day and giving me the drips, and then I can carry on with my life afterwards,” Robert shared.

To ensure the infection was being treated effectively, Robert’s care team performed weekly blood tests, collaborating with his medical team, closely tracking his recovery and adjusting his treatment when needed. Fortunately, Robert responded well to the treatment, with his health steadily improving.

“The final result, which I got this morning, shows that the medicine is working, and I might not need it anymore,” he added.

Throughout his treatment, the HomeLink team made sure Robert felt supported and at ease. He appreciated their punctuality and the time they took to talk to him, which eased his apprehension about the procedures he was undergoing. Robert noted that the staff never seemed rushed, which helped him feel relaxed and reassured during each visit. He added,

“They’re a grand bunch of nurses. Always on time, you know, always have a little time to talk to you.”

Kate, a Registered Nurse at HomeLink Healthcare, who was a regular part of Robert’s care team, spoke about the bond that forms between patients and carers during home treatment.

“You do get to know your patients really well and they get to know you,” she said. “I know what Bob likes and what he doesn’t, and we can talk about that and carry on our conversations throughout each visit.”

By the end of his treatment, Robert noticed significant improvements in his health. He reported a 6% improvement in his overall wellbeing, with significant enhancements in mobility, self-care, and reductions in pain and depression. His journey was not just about overcoming the infection but also about reclaiming his independence and confidence.

Robert’s story highlights the vital role that home-based care can play in a patient’s recovery. He expressed his gratitude for the care he received, noting how effective the treatment was and how appreciative he was of the professional and compassionate care provided by the HomeLink team. Reflecting on the experience, he remarked,

“They’ve been very good to us, very good. I can’t complain at all — everything’s been fine all around, really.”

Watch Robert’s video below: