Rehab Nursing

Post Acute Nursing
What is the Definition of Rehab Nursing?

There are many definitions of rehabilitation. However, simply put it is the process of returning the patient to a maximum level of independence despite the severity of their injury or illness. The rehabilitation nurse possesses unique expertise and training and is a critical team member in this process, helping the patient recapture control of their life and their independence, treating complex medical issues and redefining how care is provided.

At HealthSouth, comprehensive rehabilitation is planned and administered by a highly specialized and integrated team including physicians, nurses, physical therapists, respiratory therapists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, case managers and others. The rehabilitation nurse is a valuable resource and brings an important perspective to this interdisciplinary approach. These specialized nurses possess a unique knowledge of how the patient and the patient's support system function.

The rehabilitation nurse assists the patient in establishing realistic goals, coordinates team efforts to move the individual toward independence, and addresses a patient's educational, physical, spiritual and psychosocial needs. This special nurse's role helps to solidify the holistic and caring approach intrinsic to the rehabilitation process.

The rehabilitation nurse also uses technical skill and physiologic knowledge to manage the needs of medically complicated patients. These specialized nurses are treating patients who have had strokes, musculoskeletal/orthopedic disorders, traumatic brain injuries, neurological impairments, spinal cord injuries, pulmonary disorders and associated complications such as incontinence, sleep disorders and pain.

What is a Rehab Nurse?
  • The Rehabilitation Nurse has excellent functional assessment skills and takes a comprehensive approach to care.
  • The Rehabilitation Nurse helps the patient establish realistic goals and coordinates patient and team efforts to help move the individual toward independence while addressing physical, spiritual and psychosocial needs.
  • The Rehabilitation Nurse takes a holistic approach to meeting each patient's medical, vocational, educational, environmental and spiritual needs.
  • The Rehabilitation Nurse acts not only as a caregiver, but also as a coordinator, collaborator, counselor and case manager.
  • The Rehabilitation Nurse works with the family and patient soon after a chronic illness or disabling injury and continues to provide support after the patient returns to home, work or school.
  • The Rehabilitation Nurse functions as primary caregiver and educator for patients and family.
  • The Rehabilitation Nurse has the unique opportunity to combine technology and skill with the human element, which is necessary for successful rehabilitation outcomes.

For more information about HealthSouth nursing, contact Nurse Recruitment at: