Patients Emerge from Persistent Comas and Vegetative States in Nexus Health Systems Program

HOUSTON, Sept. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Nexus Health Systems announces the launch of their Emerging Consciousness Program – also known as The Phoenix Project – for individuals with a disorder of consciousness post-brain injury. Since the program formed in early 2018, over 85% of patients have experienced improved wakefulness after being in a coma or vegetative state for anywhere from weeks to years.

"Our program gives families another option besides life support and death," Dr. John W. Cassidy, Nexus Founder and Chief Medical Officer, explained. "Many of our patients are given minimal chances to live, let alone further heal and wake up."  

The Phoenix Project admits pediatric and adult patients in a coma or vegetative state after a brain injury acquired from a catastrophic event. Common occurrences include motor vehicle accident, gunshot wound, industrial accident, hemorrhage, drug overdose and near drowning. Once patients are admitted and evaluated, the team deploys individualized neuropharmacological treatment plans to draw patients out of unconsciousness and accelerate cognitive, functional and behavioral capabilities.

"As many patients emerge into consciousness, they reach many milestones including waking up for the first time, saying their name, signaling thumbs up, tracking an object or person and following commands," Catherine Worley, nurse practitioner, said. "As they progress, early stages of rehabilitation support the redevelopment of skills that enable their performance of activities of daily living like bathing and feeding."

Throughout the program, patients are assessed to determine the next steps in the process. Oftentimes, patients are good candidates to continue participation in Nexus' neurocontinuum at the community-based Neurorecovery Center. Once transferred, physical, occupational, speech and vocational therapies are tailored to patient goals. In other cases, individuals may discharge to an acute rehabilitation facility, skilled nursing facility, or home.

"This program was developed to meet the needs of an underserved population," Cassidy said. "It's important for our team to utilize our abilities to emerge patients and return them to lives of productivity and meaning."

Learn more at nexusphoenixproject.com.

About Nexus Health Systems
Since 1992, Nexus Health Systems has offered a neurocontinuum of care through campuses located just outside of Houston, Texas. Our programs extend beyond traditional therapies to manage difficult neurobehavioral pediatric and adult patients. Through individualized treatment, patients gain mobility and control over emotions and behavior, leading to greater independence and a more meaningful life. Learn more at www.nexuscontinuum.com.  

Media Contact: Rebekah Maurin
832.200.8246
[email protected]

SOURCE Nexus Health Systems