Emerging consciousness program
A severe brain injury can lead to altered consciousness, in which patients have severely impaired levels of responsiveness, awareness and ability to engage in the environment. For over 30 years, Spectrum Health has provided an accredited brain injury program specifically focused on patients with a “disorder of consciousness,” such as coma, vegetative (unresponsive wakefulness) or minimally conscious states. Although these patients are not ready for a traditional inpatient rehabilitation program, they can significantly benefit from a program that is highly specialized to treat patients with emerging consciousness.
The emerging consciousness program provides care to people who:
- Are not yet able to communicate or follow commands
- Are starting to follow commands, but are very inconsistent with this ability
- Have medical and physical complexities that may arise out of severe brain injury and need a team with specialized knowledge to monitor and manage these condition.
Our program is recognized by the national Academy of Certified Brain Injury Specialists as an Alliance Member, reflecting our program’s commitment to staff training and excellence in care through this national certification process.
Our location
The Spectrum Health Rehab and Nursing Center on Kalamazoo Avenue in Grand Rapids is one of five skilled-nursing-facility-based rehabilitation programs in the country to be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Programs (CARF) as a brain injury specialty program.
Your personalized care plan
Our team will develop personalized goals and provide education and support to family members and caregivers.
As appropriate, family members and caregivers will be involved in the rehabilitation process. Once we determine the level of consciousness using evidence-based assessment protocols, our goal is to improve this level of alertness through medications and therapeutic interventions. We will address spasticity (tight muscles) to maximize the potential for functional recovery and develop a mobility program and supporting seating system to promote awareness and maximize emerging functional abilities.
We will also work to develop any potential communication mechanisms. Another goal is to reduce the risk of hospital readmissions by preventing secondary complications, such as respiratory conditions and skin issues.
Meet our care team
Internal Medicine Physician
May manage some of your care in the inpatient setting, and also as you return to the community.
Neuropsychologist
Conducts diagnostic interviews to understand conditions and get you the right care.
Respiratory Therapist
Capable of performing a wide range of respiratory-related procedures.
Nursing Team
Assesses your condition and provides nursing care to help improve your level of functioning.
Physical Therapist
Works with you in moving your arms and legs, helping to build strength, coordination, balance and endurance.
Neurologic Music Therapist
Utilizes music to address the physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs of individuals.
Case Manager or Social Worker
Works with your care team to identify the most appropriate discharge plan.
Physiatrist
A physician trained to assess disability and specialized in rehabilitation.
Occupational Therapist
Focuses on activities of daily living, such as bathing, grooming and independent living skills.
Speech Language Pathologist
Addresses impairments in communication, swallowing, and cognition to help improve your independence.
Contact the Emerging Consciousness Program
For more information or to schedule an appointment