Continuing Incapacity Despite "Medical Recovery"

Abstract

The physician not infrequently encounters patients who have achieved good medical or surgical recovery but fail to return to a life of useful activity. Such patients show a continuing incapacity despite "medical recovery." This is especially likely to occur after illnesses that immobilize the patient and make him dependent upon others for his care. His relation to the physician and the physician's understanding and interest strongly influence the results. The histories of 2 male patients aged 44 and 37 years illustrate these principles. It is recommended that discharge planning begin at the time of the physician's first interview with the patient and that measures to keep the patient alert, stimulated, and self-confident be considered, especially if treatment involves long periods of immobilization.