Collision with Emergency Vehicle Leads to Coma for Truck Driver

Case Overview

This case involves an individual working as a truck driver who was involved in a serious incident when an ambulance ran a red light, resulting in a collision with their vehicle. Following this traumatic event, the individual fell into a coma. While they are able to open their eyes, they cannot communicate and are currently residing in a treatment facility. The legal team is seeking an expert in life care planning to thoroughly review this case and formulate a comprehensive life care plan that outlines future costs and care requirements for the patient.

Questions to the Life Care Planning expert and their responses

What factors are considered when developing a life care plan for patients in a coma?

One of the main considerations is the daily care that will be required. This person will likely require 24/7 care. As a home care nurse, I have the qualifications to assess the proper level of care required, as well as the knowledge to properly cost the level of care. In addition, assessing the need for adaptive equipment, care supplies, medical follow-up, therapy needs, medications, and housing modifications are included in the life care plan.

How often do you perform life care plans for individuals who are in a coma?

I have been preparing life plans for more than 35 years, including hundreds for people who have brain injuries and have been in a coma state.

About the expert

This expert has 30 years of experience in the field of life care planning. She earned her BSN from Augsburg College and her MA in health and human services administration from Saint Mary's College. She is a licensed registered nurse in the state of Minnesota and is certified as both a life care planner and a nurse life care planner. She is an active member of the American Association of Nurse Life Care Planners and the International Association of Rehabilitation Professionals. This expert previously was a staff nurse at Saint Joseph's Hospital, a clinical supervisor at UpJohn Healthcare Services, a home care supervisor with Interim Health Care, and the president of American Home Health Services. Most recently, she worked as a consultant for the pilot program for the Wounded Warrior Project. Currently, she serves as a life care planner at a private practice in Minnesota.

E-087388

Specialties:

Life Care Planning