06/10/2026
After becoming progressively confused and agitated, Todd was taken to a short-term acute care hospital for evaluation and treatment. There, it was determined he had elevated ammonia levels related to serious liver conditions. Todd had hepatic encephalopathy – a nervous system disorder caused by liver failure that can cause cognitive and motor impairments – and hepatitis-C cirrhosis. During his hospitalization, Todd experienced respiratory failure with dangerous pneumonia, complicated by acute respiratory distress syndrome, leading to multiple intubations and extubations. Additional complications included delirium and agitation, severe deconditioning, and urinary retention requiring Foley catheter placement. Due to the respiratory failure and his inability to maintain airway protection, Todd underwent a tracheostomy and PEG (feeding) tube placement.
Todd was subsequently transferred to Kindred Hospital The Palm Beaches for multidisciplinary medical management, ventilator support and weaning, pulmonary rehabilitation, and continued recovery.
Once at Kindred, Todd’s care included respiratory therapy, physical, occupational, and speech therapy, and dietary support. In addition, the Kindred team managed Todd’s IV medications, sedation drips and Foley catheter. Eventually, Todd was decannulated and fully weaned off the ventilator and progressed beyond the need for the PEG tube. At the time of discharge, he was able to walk, talk and eat without any issue.
Todd was successfully discharged home.
"Everyone is great in this hospital," he said. "I can’t wait to go home."
To read more patient stories and learn more about our care, please visit: https://www.kindredhospitals.com/locations/florida/the-palm-beaches
