Case management of a patient with botulism by an intensive care nurse practitioner team

People affected by conditions such as botulism often require complex case management, a core activity of nurse practitioners, in intensive care. This case report, coauthored by the patient, describes exemplary nurse practitioner-led complex case management including weaning from mechanical ventilation of a person affected by botulism.

The case management was person centred and included goal setting and collaborative multidisciplinary team meetings including the patient. Goals were set by the patient in consultation with the nurse practitioner and included timelines for discontinuation of mechanical ventilation.

Intensive care nurse practitioner case management resulted in a greater sense of continuity of care, successful discontinuation of mechanical ventilation, and satisfaction with care. The patient returned to their previous employment and function.

The intensive care nurse practitioner case management included advanced, bespoke, and holistic practice which was coordinated using a structured approach providing clinical leadership and continuity for the patient and their family.