Rebuilding Independence: How Baptist Health Corbin Helps Patients Master Car Transfers

CORBIN, KY (July 22, 2024) - After being discharged from the hospital, one of the initial challenges many patients face is something most people do without a second thought: getting in and out of a car.

At the inpatient rehabilitation unit of Baptist Health Corbin, a key part of the therapy for patients recovering from injuries or illnesses is learning how to safely transfer in and out a vehicle. John Way, the director of rehabilitation services, emphasized the importance of this skill. "Being able to get into a car is crucial for independence," he said. "Almost anywhere we go involves getting into a car."

To aid patients in mastering this skill, Baptist Health Corbin has equipped the unit with a mock car. This simulated vehicle, complete with seats, seatbelts, doors, and a steering wheel, can be adjusted in height to match the patient's own vehicle. This allows patients to practice in a setting that closely resembles their real-life situation.

Way noted the surprising need for such equipment. "We realized the importance of aiding patients in basic daily tasks that most of us perform multiple times a day without much thought," he said. "By being able to provide this simulated vehicle, I have noticed a huge impact on our patients.  They are regaining independence as well as confidence.”

According to Way, any rehabilitation patient who was able to get in and out of a car before hospitalization practices this skill during therapy. The adjustable mock car allows therapists to customize the training according to each patient's needs. "Getting into a Suburban is very different from getting into a Honda Civic," Way explained. "For some, exiting a Suburban is easier than a smaller car."

Practicing with a therapist present helps patients gain confidence and prevent falls. In addition to car transfers, patients learn various other essential skills, including bathing, feeding, and light housekeeping.

"We prioritize patient safety and aim to help our patients return to their normal lives. One of the first steps post-discharge is getting into a car," Way said.

While the mock car is solely for teaching the transfer process, patients needing to relearn how to drive are referred to a driving school for specialized instruction.