This case collaborative provides you with the opportunity to work in an interprofessional team of students from different health and social care professions.
Working together, your team will identify the needs of Daijha Flores and her family and will build an interprofessional team to meet their needs.
Your team is tasked with ensuring the delivery of holistic, whole person, interprofessional team-based care to meet the physical, emotional and social needs of Daijha Flores and her family.
Registration opens Friday, August 28, 2026
(Each of these workshops will be available on the case website to view on demand until October 16, 2026.)
Registration opens Friday, August 28, 2026
(Each of these workshops will be available on the case website to view on demand until October 16, 2026.)
Registration opens Friday, August 28, 2026
(Each of these workshops will be available on the case website to view on demand until October 16, 2026.)
Your team is about to take over the care of 14-year-old Daijha Flores, who was seen in the Emergency Department following a motor vehicle accident in which the vehicle she was in was T-boned. Daijha presented with left-sided mouth pain, having difficulty hearing despite a left cochlear implant, pain and bruising over the left collarbone and hip, pain with a laceration on the right hand, and edema of the right 5th finger. ED findings included concussion without loss of consciousness; laceration of right hand; displaced fracture of the base of the 5th metacarpal bone of the right hand; left hip contusion; left clavicle contusion; tooth fracture and oral cavity laceration and unspecified sensorineural hearing loss establishing need for evaluation of cochlear implant device.
You are provided with the following information to help you with your task.
Your team is tasked with:
As you work together to build the team to care for Daijha Flores and her family you must consider:
Use the 4 core competencies for interprofessional collaborative practice to guide you on the issues to consider
Once you register for the collaborative event, you will be placed into a small interprofessional team and will be assigned a team facilitator. Names and contact information for your teammates and facilitator will be sent to you prior to orientation. By the end of the orientation event, your team should have developed a plan as to how you will communicate and function to complete the assigned tasks.
A faculty team facilitator will be assigned to each team. The faculty team members who developed the case will serve as facilitators for your group and can help guide you through the task. So please feel free to ask for help in understanding the assigned task. Your facilitator is able to:
Your end product is an oral presentation, presented via Zoom, which demonstrates your reflection on the life story and care of Daijha Flores and her family, and the professionals you would include in an interprofessional team to meet their needs.
You are also asked to provide a short reflective piece in your presentation on your own team's experience of collaboration in action, including what you have learned about the other professions' roles and responsibilities, team working, and communication issues.
Each team will have 20 minutes to present their work. A 5-minute, 3-minute and 1-minute warning will be given to the team. At the conclusion of 20 minutes, the timekeeper will announce time and your team must stop their presentation. No team will be permitted to exceed the allocated 20-minute time limit. If the team completes its presentation prior to the 20-minute time limit, the team should announce that they have completed their presentation. Presentations will be followed by a 10-minute question and answer period with a panel of judges.
Each team member must participate equally in both the oral presentation and the question and answer period immediately following the team presentation.
Judges will complete a scoring sheet for each team presentation. An average score will be calculated for each team. Teams will be provided with their team score and feedback after the event.
Grading Rubric
Daijha Flores is 14 years old and lives in Mesa, Arizona. She is a track and field athlete at the Lost Dutchman School and her specialty is the javelin throw. Her younger sister is also a track athlete and they look forward to competing because it helps them cope with stress. Their father is disabled and their mother is the sole income-earner for their family, as well as being the full-time caretaker for their father, as well as shuttling her and her sister to track meets. Due to prior hearing loss, Daijha received a cochlear implant in 2019. Recently, she and her mother and younger sister were traveling to a track meet in their minivan when their van was T-boned on the passenger side when a delivery van ran a stop sign. Daijha, seated in the left rear passenger seat, suffered injuries to her left side and her right hand and was evaluated in the Emergency Department and required follow-up care as a result of her injuries and possible damage to her cochlear implant device.
Read Daijha’s Emergency Department narrative (pdf)
Read Mom’s (Sophia) Post ED Narrative (pdf)
Read Little Sister’s (Andrea) Post ED Narrative (pdf)
General City Information:
Mesa is located in Maricopa County, Arizona. It is the 38th-most populous city in the United States and the third-most populous city in Arizona after Phoenix and Tucson. Mesa lies to the east of Phoenix near the Superstition Mountains. Mesa is home to several colleges and universities and hosts the largest relief airport to Phoenix, the Mesa Gateway Airport.1
Mesa was founded by Mormon settlers in 1878. The original townsite was 1 mile square. Prior to this, the Hohokam people lived in the Salt River Valley and had built a canal system, part of which the settlers used for their first irrigation project in the area, and the first railroad arrived by 1895.2
Mesa’s diverse economy and key areas of strength include health care, education, aerospace and defense, tourism and technology industries. Some of the major employers in Mesa include Apple, AT&T, Banner Health, Boeing, Bridgestone and others.3
Mesa is home to many outdoor destinations and is the gateway to the Sonoran Desert and Tonto National Forest, among others and provides many opportunities to enjoy the arts and fine dining.4
Mesa Area Healthcare:
Mesa, Arizona is home to several hospitals from primary acute care, specialty and general hospital care. These include a network of hospitals through the Banner Health system, including Banner Desert (including Banner Children’s), Banner Baywood, Banner Heart, and Banner Gateway. Dignity Health and Honor Health also serve the Mesa Community.5
Economics:
“Mesa, Arizona’s cost of living is 4% higher than the national average.” Housing and utilities are 6% above the national average with the median home price at $566,308.6 The living wage for a household of 2 adults and 2 children (with only one parent working) is $90,480 annually.7
1 Wikipedia
2 City of Mesa
3 AZ Commerce
4 City of Mesa
5 Mesa Chamber.org
6 Payscale.com
7 Living Wage calculator
14-year-old Daijha Flores presented to the Emergency Department following a motor vehicle accident in which the vehicle she was in was T-boned. Daijha presented with left-sided mouth pain, having difficulty hearing despite a left cochlear implant, pain and bruising over the left collarbone and hip, pain with a laceration on the right hand, and edema of the right 5th finger. ED findings included concussion without loss of consciousness; laceration of right hand; displaced fracture of the base of the 5th metacarpal bone of the right hand; left hip contusion; left clavicle contusion; tooth fracture and oral cavity laceration and unspecified sensorineural hearing loss establishing need for evaluation of cochlear implant device.
Patient Name: Flores, Daijha
DOB: 09/14/2012
Age: 14 years old
Gender: Female
Date of Service: 06/22/2026
CHIEF COMPLAINT
MVA (T-bone), head injury, facial injury, right hand laceration, collarbone pain, left hip pain.
HISTORY OF PRESENT ILLNESS (HPI)
Patient is a 14yo female with a past medical history significant for profound hearing loss who presents for evaluation after a motor vehicle T-bone collision which occurred earlier today. The patient was travelling to a track meet where she was to participate in the javelin throw when the mini-van vehicle she was riding in that was driven by her mother and also was carrying her 12-year-old sister was struck on the right-hand side by a delivery van that failed to yield at a stop sign. Speed of the travelling vehicles is unknown. EMS report states air bag did not deploy. Per the patient she was seated in left side passenger seat behind her mother and wearing her seatbelt at the time of the collision, and that when the collision occurred, she was slammed against the window on her left side, hitting her head. She also reports left sided mouth pain and notes she hit her mouth/teeth during the collision as well. The patient notes she wears a left cochlear implant for history of profound hearing loss and that she has had difficulty hearing since the time of the collision. She reports pain and bruising over her collarbone and left hip. Patient also reports that during the collision the left driver’s side middle passenger window shattered and she received a laceration on her right hand, which is her dominant hand. She is also reporting pain and swelling of the right 5th finger.
Past Medical History
Family History
Social History
REVIEW OF SYSTEMS
PHYSICAL EXAMINATION
Vitals: BP: 118/74 | HR: 88 bpm | RR: 16 rpm | Temp: 98.6°F | SpO2: 99% on room air.
Diagnostics/Imaging
Result: CT Head & Maxillofacial (Non-contrast): No acute intracranial hemorrhage, midline shift, or mass effect. Linear, non-displaced fractures of the left maxillary and mandibular alveolar processes. Tooth buds of developing third molars are anatomically adjacent to the fracture lines; immediate displacement not seen.
Result: X-Ray Left Clavicle & Left Hip: No cortical disruption or fracture of the left clavicle; localized soft tissue swelling. Left hip films negative for bony fracture or dislocation; findings consistent with severe periosteal contusion (hip pointer).
Result: X-Ray Right Hand: oblique fracture of the base of the fifth metacarpal (Boxer's Fracture) with mild angulation.
ASSESSMENT AND PLAN:
Provider Signature: Dudley Do-Right MMS, PA-C
Time of Discharge: 17:12 MST
Parient Name: Daijha Flores
Patient Gender: Female
Patient Age: 14 years old
Currently Live In: Mesa, AZ
School: Lost Dutchman School – has athletic trainer on site
Patient Sport Activity: Track, javelin throwing
Family Memebers of Patient:
History:
Observation:
Head
Gait
Hip
Shoulder
Hand
Palpation
(+)point tenderness over L clavivle
(+)sharp, localized pain along L iliac crest upon palpation
(+)pain on R hand when palpated without the splint
Special Tests
Head
Shoulder
Hip
Hand
General Exam
Diagnosis:
Head
Face
Shoulder
Hip
Hand
Plan:
Andrea - Sister
History
Diagnosis
Date of Exam:
Patient Name: Daijha Flores
Date of Birth: 09/14/2012
Provider: N. Nelson, AuD
Chief Complaint: Evaluation of left cochlear implant function following a motor vehicle collision (MVC).
SUBJECTIVE (S)
The patient is a 14-year-old female with a history of profound left-sided sensorineural hearing loss status post left cochlear implant (CI) [Cochlear Americas] 2019. Daijha presents today for urgent evaluation after being involved in a motor vehicle collision on June 22, 2026, where their vehicle was T-boned on the right side. According to EMS, airbags did not deploy. They were evaluated at the Emergency Department immediately following the crash, where acute intracranial hemorrhage and cervical spine fracture were ruled out via non-contrast Head CT. Review of systems in the emergency department noted possible cochlear implant damage. Patient reports decreased hearing since the accident. She was diagnosed with an acute concussion, repaired a laceration on her right hand and discharged home. Other significant medical history includes a sister (12 years old) with retinitis pigmentosa.
Current Cochlear Implant Symptoms:
OBJECTIVE (O)
Physical Examination:
Audiological & Device Evaluation (Internal/External):
ASSESSMENT (A)
PLAN (P)
Cochlear Implant Management:
Electronically signed by: N. Nelson, AuD
Patient Name: Flores, Daijha
DOB: 09/14/2012 | Age: 14 years old
Gender: Female
Date of Service: 06/23/2026
Provider: Dr. Alex Mercer, DDS (Pediatric & Maxillofacial Dentistry)
CHIEF COMPLAINT
"My left jaw hurts, my teeth feel loose, and the inside of my cheek was bitten during the car accident."
HISTORY OF PRESENT ILLNESS (HPI)
Patient is a 14-year-old female presenting for urgent dental and maxillofacial evaluation after a motor vehicle collision (T-bone impact) on 06/22/2026. Patient was seated in the rear left passenger seat and sustained lateral head and facial impact against the vehicle window. Patient was initially evaluated and stabilized in the Emergency Department. She reports severe left-sided intraoral pain, continuous low-grade oozing, and structural instability/looseness of her left upper and lower teeth. Patient notes that the inside of her left cheek was severely pinched/chewed during impact. Additionally, she presents with a mild concussion, a right 5th metacarpal fracture (splinted), a right palmar laceration (10 sutures), a left hip pointer, a left clavicle contusion, and a possible damage to left-sided cochlear implant speech processor as noted by ED physician. Communication was conducted using clear visual tracking and written prompts due to acute hearing impairment and concussion protocols.
MEDICAL, DENTAL, & SOCIAL HISTORY
REVIEW OF SYSTEMS (MAXILLOFACIAL & INTRAORAL)
PHYSICAL EXAMINATION
Extraoral Examination
Intraoral Examination
DIAGNOSTICS & IMAGING REVIEW
DIAGNOSIS
Provider Signature:
Alex Mercer, DDS
Pediatric & Maxillofacial Dentistry
Time of Encounter: 10:30 MST
Patient Name: Daijha Flores
Date of Birth: 09/14/2012
Visit No: 1- Initial evaluation
Setting: Outpatient hand therapy
Diagnosis: Right hand- Displaced, oblique fracture of the neck of the 5th metacarpal (Boxer’s Fracture) with mild angulation.
M.D. Orders: OT eval. and treatment. Fabricate orthoplastic, removable ulnar gutter orthosis; begin AROM only of hand and wrist with orthosis removed only for exercise. Orthosis required for any light hand use.
Precautions: Non-weight bearing (NWB) on right hand.
SUBJECTIVE
History of Present Condition/Mechanism of Injury:
Patient is a 14 yo female who was involved in a MVA on 6/22/2026; she was a restrained passenger on the left side passenger seat behind the driver. She sustained a 4.0 cm linear, deep subcutaneous laceration across the palmar crease of the dominant hand which required 10 sutures. Stitches were removed 10 days after injury by the hand surgeon who referred her to outpatient OT for hand therapy.
X-ray showed displaced fracture of the base of the 5th metacarpal bone, right hand. In the ED she underwent closed reduction of the fifth metacarpal fracture and application of an ulnar gutter fiberglass splint in a functional position. Patient had follow-up with the orthopedic specialist and presents with new script of OT eval. and custom orthotic fabrication
In addition to hand injuries, she also sustained a concussion without loss of consciousness, left hip contusion, left shoulder contusion, (no clavicle fracture identified), dental injuries, and sensorineural hearing loss with possible damage to cochlear implant in the left ear.
Her school athletic trainer is working with the patient in alliance with school district concussion protocol for return to sport and coordinating with teachers for return to learn readiness. She is currently attending all classes and working with her teachers on a modified assignment schedule.
Past Medical History (PMH):
This patient has a history of profound hearing loss over the last seven years and has a left-sided cochlear implant. She reported diminished hearing directly following the accident and is referred to audiology for evaluation of the device as well as SLP for short-term aural rehabilitation services while awaiting cochlear implant repair. SLP will also be working on memory and other cognitive impairments noted secondary to the concussion.
Social History:
Patient lives in a one-story home with her mother, father, and 12 yo sister. Her father has a history of TBI and high cervical SCI resulting in quadraplegia. He uses a power wheelchair and receives full-time care from the patient’s mother. The patient is active in Track and Field as a javelin thrower.
Primary Concern/Chief Complaint:
The patient is wearing the original fiberglass ulnar gutter splint fabricated in the ED. She reports that it is uncomfortable and leaves pressure marks at the ulnar wrist and side of her hand. It feels tight as swelling in her ulnar hand continues to increase although she is 10 days post injury.
She is able to use her dominant right hand for light activities of daily living (ADLs) with the fiberglass splint on such as self-feeding, oral hygiene, and grooming but reports pain is more pronounced at the end of the day. She is able to write with her right hand slowly, but states that she has difficulty with computer use for school. She is currently typing with her left hand and only radial right fingers for completing school assignments.
Handedness: Patient is Right hand dominant
Current Level of Function (PLOF):
Mobility: The patient is unable to use crutches due to right 5th metacarpal fracture and NWB status. Her left hip pain has decreased and she is able to walk short distances although antalgic gait persists.
Leisure/Interest: The patient would like to return to her track team when able. She expressed wanting to be able to get back to drawing and playing computer games which is now difficult with her hand fracture.
Pain Location
Worst: 6/10; Best: 2/10; Current: 4/10
Description of Pain: Aching pain in right hand at rest. Sharp pain in areas of pressure from the fiberglass splint. She has not tried to move her ulnar fingers on the right but knows that it will be initiated today during OT treatment.
Mental Status/Cognitive Function: Patient reports headaches from the concussion that are diminishing. She is doing better with her school work but reports ‘brain fog’ that makes it hard for her to remember what she is reading. Her teachers are working with her on a modified ‘return to learn’ assignment schedule.
Patient Goals: Regain ability to use right hand and return to full use for school work and javelin throwing.
OBJECTIVE
Patient Consent
Patient/Consent: X
Objective Measures
Quick Dash: 70.5% perceived disability. See attached report below
Cast/Splint Type: Orthoplastic forearm based ulnar gutter orthosis fabricated this date for right hand/wrist. Wrist neutral; 4th and 5th finger MCPs at 90 degrees flexion, IPs full extension. Good fit achieved; patient instructed in wear and care of orthosis including skin inspection and wearing schedule. She is to wear the orthosis at all times except during exercise, hand hygiene, and showering. She was independent with the don/doff of the orthosis.
Right palm laceration: Stitches removed by orthopedic surgeon. Healing well with no dehiscence or drainage. Does not affect motion of the hand or wrist. Tender to palpation around the incision.
Range of Motion
Right hand and wrist AROM is WNL at all joints
| Wrist AROM | Right |
|---|---|
| Extension | 35 degrees |
| Flexion | 40 degrees |
| Radial Deviation | 10 degrees |
| Ulnar Deviation | NT secondary to pain |
| Finger AROM | Right | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| MCP | PIP | DIP | |
| Thumb | WNL | WNL | |
| 2nd finger | WNL | WNL | WNL |
| 3rd finger | WNL | WNL | WNL |
| 4th finger | 25/60 degrees | 15/75 degrees | 0/40 degrees |
| 5th finger | 40/55 degrees | 20/55 degrees | 0/35 degrees |
Hand Strength: Not tested due to healing right 5th metacarpal fracture
Edema:
Wrist circumference:
Right: 19 cm
Left: 17 cm
Volumeter:
Right: 310 mL
Left: 265 mL
ASSESSMENT
Assessment/Diagnosis:
The patient presents with signs and symptoms consistent with a diagnosis of 5th metacarpal fracture, 10 days post injury. The newly fabricated orthosis fits well and will allow for the patient to have unobstructed movement thumb, index and middle fingers for light hand use for ADLs and school work. Edema and stiffness in the right hand decreases her ability to complete full AROM; she has a good understanding of her home exercises for gentle AROM and tendon gliding exercises to be done 3-4x/day with orthosis removed. Of most concern is her inability to actively extend the ring and small fingers. Extension lag may be due to scarring to adhesions of the extensor digitorum on the dorsal surface of the 5th metacarpal, persistent edema, and tightness from the healing palmar laceration. Follow-through of HEP should help with tendon glide and return to full motion of the right ulnar fingers.
Recommend skilled OT for hand therapy to work toward goals. We will begin with wrist and hand AROM and will begin gentle strengthening of the hand and wrist as per M.D. order as bone healing progresses.
Rehab Potential: Good
Problem List:
Pain with functional use of right hand
Decreased AROM of wrist and ulnar fingers on the right
Edema in right wrist and hand
Decreased functional hand use for ADLs and school tasks
Name: Daijha Flores
Date of Birth: 09/14/2012
Diagnosis: left hip contusion and left shoulder contusion (primarily left clavicle)
Date of PT referral: June 22, 2026
Date of PT initial evaluation: June 29, 2026
SUBJECTIVE
Chief complaint: Nagging pain on left shoulder and hip, worse at end of day
History of Present Condition:
Patient is a 14 yo female who was involved in a motor vehicle accident (MVA) on June 22, 2026. The patient reported that she was a passenger at the time of the accident, seated behind the driver on the rear left side. She also reported wearing a seatbelt at the time of collision. She further states that the pain from her left hip and left shoulder were the result of the direct impact during the accident. The orthopedic surgeon's notes reported no underlying fracture on both left shoulder and left hip. The patient has also been prescribed Advil to be taken every 6 hours. She reports that her pain level intensity is dependent on time of day, worsening during late afternoons. She was also advised to apply ice several times a day and was encouraged to take frequent rest. When prompted, she reported her current pain level at 4/10 at rest, but can go as high as 6/10 when it gets too painful. She reports stepping on the left foot worsens left hip pain. She is also able to move the left shoulder “just a bit;” this has affected her daily activities at home, including bathing and dressing. She noticed that her movement has significantly changed since the time of the accident. The patient is right hand dominant. Other significant injuries from the MVA include closed reduction of the fifth metacarpal fracture, concussion without loss of consciousness, and dental injuries. She was prescribed a walker with a right platform attachment prior to being discharged from the hospital. She mentioned that she has far less energy at this point and using the assistive device has become cumbersome but helpful in decreasing pain. The patient reported to the writer that she is anxious about returning to playing as a track and field athlete (javelin thrower).
Past Medical Hx:
Profound sensorineural hearing loss
Family Hx:
Social Hx:
OBJECTIVE
V/S: BP – 110/60 mmHg
HR – 60 bpm
RR – 14 cpm
Ocular inspection:
Range of Motion (ROM) Testing:*
| Left shoulder | Left hip | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Active | Passive | Active | Passive | |
| Flexion | 0-40 degrees | 0-43 degrees | 0-10 degrees, limited by pain | 0-12 degrees, limited by pain |
| Extension | Not tested, patient declined | Not tested, patient declined | 0-7 (modified testing positon due to discomfort) | 0-9 (modified testing positon due to discomfort) |
| External rotation | Not tested, patient declined | Not tested, patient declined | Not tested, patient declined | Not tested, patient declined |
| Internal rotation | Not tested, patient declined | Not tested, patient declined | Not tested, patient declined | Not tested, patient declined |
*Patient declined to have right hand ROM measured - “Please don’t touch it.”
Manual Muscle Testing (MMT):
All group muscles grossly graded 5/5, except for left shoulder and left hip, noted below:
| Left shoulder | Left hip | |
|---|---|---|
| Flexion | 2/5 (limited by pain in left clavicular area) | 2/5 (limited by pain in hip pointer area) |
| Extension | Not tested, patient declined | 2/5 |
| External rotation | Not tested, patient declined | 3/5 |
| Internal rotation | Not tested, patient declined | 3/5 |
Muscle palpation – tenderness noted left shoulder (clavicular area), left hip pointer area, and right hand.
ASSESSMENT:
PT Impression: Patient presents with limited left shoulder mobility and antalgic gait secondary to left hip pointer injury. Patient will benefit from several sessions of PT to address mobility issues, decrease pain level, and improve functional mobility and endurance. PT assessment and treatment for the right hand will be deferred until the patient consents.
Problem list:
GOALS:
Short term:
PLAN:
Frequency: 3X/week initially, tapering to 2X/week after 6 Rx sessions
Short term plan
Medium term:
Signed: John Doe, PT
June 29, 2026
Public Health: Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES): Acts as Patient/Family Educator and Patient Navigator through the healthcare system and back into the community
PATIENT EDUCATOR/PATIENT NAVIGATOR NOTES FOR DISCHARGE PLAN PREPARATION: For providers:
RP - https://bestpractice.bmj.com/topics/en-us/1144
https://www.uptodate.com/contents/retinitis-pigmentosa-treatment
https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/eye-disorders/retinal-disorders/retinitis-pigmentosa
Hearing loss/cochlear implants – https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaotolaryngology/article-abstract/2769941
https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/implants-and-prosthetics/cochlear-implants?ftag=YHF4eb9d17
https://www.asha.org/Practice-Portal/Professional-Issues/Cochlear-Implants/
https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/ear-nose-and-throat-disorders/hearing-loss/hearing-loss
https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/hearingloss/treatment.html
Concussion - https://www.cdc.gov/heads-up/hcp/providers/index.html
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2024/1000/practice-guidelines-concussion-in-sport
https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/concussion/
https://www.cdc.gov/heads-up/guidelines/returning-to-sports.html
https://www.concussionalliance.org/recovery-guide-children-adolescents
https://www.neurologyadvisor.com/factsheets/concussion-grades/
Your roles as part of the IP team – work with other providers to:
PROVIDE PATIENT/FAMILY EDUCATION ON:
https://www.ama-assn.org/topics/patient-resources
Daijha/family – medical self-advocacy/speaking up to providers – https://www.ppcc-pa.org/toolkits-2/advocacy-toolkit
https://www.stlouischildrens.org/health-resources/pulse/teen-health-advocacy
https://www.npaf.org/
https://selfadvocacy.pitt.edu/sites/default/files/assets/Self-Advocacy%20Training%20For%20Patients.pdf
https://www.patientadvocate.org/explore-our-resources/
https://heartsandminds.nami.org/articles/medical-self-advocacy/
Daijha/family – hearing loss - https://www.azdhs.gov/documents/prevention/womens-childrens-health/reports-fact-sheets/hearing-vision/HearingAids-ResourcesForParents_English.pdf
https://www.cdc.gov/hearing-loss-children/treatment/index.html
https://assets.cochlear.com/api/public/content/CAM-MK-PR-475-Cochlear-Implants-for-Children-Fact-Sheet.pdf
https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/searchresults?query=hearing%20loss&icd9=389;388.0;388.1&page=1&type=topic
Make her hearing loss team - Typically includes an audiologist to assess and manage hearing devices, an otolaryngologist for medical and surgical treatment, and a speech-language pathologist to support communication development. Additionally, a psychologist may be included to address emotional and social needs, and a special education teacher can help with educational strategies.
Concussion/mild grade – return to sports/learning/recovery – https://www.concussionalliance.org/our-programs#patient-advocate-education
https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/specialties/concussion-center/concussion-toolkit/return-to-learn
https://www.cdc.gov/heads-up/guidelines/index.html
https://cbirt.org/sites/cbirt.org/files/resources/ocamp_yso_all.pdf
https://www.concussionalliance.org/
Make her concussion team - Youth concussion clinical team should include sports medicine specialists, neurologists, psychologists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and athletic trainers to address the various aspects of concussion care and recovery.
Andrea/family - RP – https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17429-retinitis-pigmentosa
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/retinitis-pigmentosa
https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-retinitis-pigmentosa
Make her RP – team: Managing RP requires more than just an eye doctor. A multidisciplinary care team ensures all your needs—physical, functional, and emotional—are met. Retinal Specialist: To monitor the health of your retina and keep you informed about clinical trials. Low Vision Specialist: An optometrist who specializes in prescribing the right magnification and technology for your specific vision. Orientation & Mobility (O&M) Specialist: A trainer who teaches you how to move safely through the world . Mental Health Counselor: To support you through the emotional transitions of vision loss.
Mom – caregiver/mental health self-care - https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/self-care-for-the-caregiver-201810171716
https://www.everydayhealth.com/emotional-health/self-care-for-caregivers/
https://mhanational.org/caregiving/
https://adaa.org/find-help/by-demographics/caregivers
ADVOCATE FOR ACCESS AND PROVIDE PATIENT/FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES ON:
Medical self-advocacy/speaking up to providers educational materials - https://wapave.org/healthcare-transition-and-medical-self-advocacy/
https://www.ppcc-pa.org/toolkits-2/advocacy-toolkit
https://amchp.org/resources/teen-self-advocacy-how-to-be-your-own-healthcare-advocate/
Concussion/mild grade – return to sports/learning/recovery educational materials- https://concussionandcte.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Concussion-Guidebook-for-Patients-and-Caregivers.pdf
https://concussionhub.org/
https://www.neuropt.org/docs/default-source/cpgs/concussion/concussion-kt-clinician-resources/patient-handout_final.pdf?sfvrsn=b6765d43_0
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/health/practitioner-pro/bc-guidelines/concussion-mbti-appendix-d.pdf
https://www.bianc.net/resources/handouts/
RP – patient education materials: https://biausa.org/public-affairs/media/concussion-awareness-infographics
https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/eye-disorders/retinal-disorders/retinitis-pigmentosa
https://www.nei.nih.gov/eye-health-information/eye-conditions-and-diseases/retinitis-pigmentosa
https://www.fightingblindness.org/patient-resources
https://incitefulmed.com/resources/guides/retinitis-pigmentosa-comprehensive-guide/
https://www.asrs.org/patients/patient-education-materials
https://isgedr.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/understand-retinitis-pigmentosa-uofm.pdf
Caregiver mental health self-care resources - https://dscc.uic.edu/browse-resources/caregiver-mental-health-toolkit/
https://mhanational.org/resources/tools-and-resources-for-caregivers/
https://www.nia.nih.gov/toolkits/caregiving
https://www.caregiveraction.org/toolbox/
Hearing loss materials - https://www.hear4hope.org/resources
https://www.aidthesilent.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/AidTheSilent-Resource-Booklet-Web.pdf
https://www.cdc.gov/hearing-loss-children/communication-resources/links-to-other-resources-on-hearing-loss.html
https://nationaldeafcenter.org/resources/
RECOMMEND PATIENT/FAMILY COMMUNITY SUPPORT SERVICES
RP/vision loss – Ex. Social media support groups: https://www.facebook.com/groups/jacquelinemeek/
https://www.juliettefoundation.org/
https://www.fightingblindness.org/chapters - https://www.fightingblindness.org/chapters/arizona- Arizona chapter - https://eyespy.org/media/groups/ - Arizona Chapter; https://viewfinderlowvision.com/peer-support-groups - Mesa;
Cochlear implants/hearing loss - https://www.acdhh.org/
https://ageofaccess.az.gov/
https://www.hearingloss.org/get-involved/hlaa-chapters/find-a-chapter/
https://www.atarizona.com/pdf/AZhear.pdf
https://hlaawestvalleyaz.org/hearing-help/
https://www.hearingloss.org/
Financial support – health - https://www.mesaaz.gov/Resident-Resources/Community-Support-Programs
https://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/arizona_assistance_programs.html
https://azretinacare.com/patients/financial-information/
https://www.thehelplist.com/city/az-mesa
https://www.findhelp.org/money/financial-assistance--mesa-az
Financial support – low vision https://www.asrs.org/patients/patient-assistance-resources
https://preventblindness.org/vision-care-financial-assistance-information/
https://lowvision.preventblindness.org/financial-assistance-for-eye-care/
https://www.asrs.org/patients/patient-assistance-resources
Financial support - hearing loss - https://asuspeechandhearingclinic.org/services/adult-hearing-and-balance/hearing-healthcare-assistance-program
https://www.acdhh.org/hard-of-hearing/hearing-aids/
https://www.hearingloss.org/find-help/financial-assistance/
https://www.cms.gov/medicare-coverage-database/view/ncd.aspx?NCDId=245
Coordinate sisters’ care while at school with School Health Services and Counseling, Psychological, and Social Services components of the WSSC Model
https://www.cdc.gov/whole-school-community-child/about/index.html and https://www.cdc.gov/whole-school-community-child/about/components-of-wscc.html
Health services - Educate students and their caregivers about chronic conditions and coordinate care with external health care providers. Train appropriate school staff on how to provide resources that support students with chronic health conditions.
Counseling, psychological, and social services - Help students with chronic health conditions during transitions, such as changes in schools or family structure. Provide or refer students and families to school- and community-based counseling services.
Daijha – cochlear implants – tool for schools: https://www.advancedbionics.com/us/en/home/learn/kids/tools-for-schools ; what educators need to know - https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/cochlear-implants/what-educators-need-know ; students with hearing loss - https://showmeschoolhealth.org/resources/students-with-hearing-loss-or-deafness/ + https://cdn.rileychildrens.org/resources/cochlear-implant-program-information-for-teachers-and-other-school-professionals-160505.pdf
Andrea - RP at school- https://www.pathstoliteracy.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Classroom_adaptations_for_students_with_low_vision.pdf
https://nelowvision.com/adapting-the-classroom-for-children-with-low-vision-practical-strategies-for-inclusive-learning/
https://teachers.institute/higher-education-the-psycho-social-context/supporting-visually-impaired-students/
https://childrenwithspecialneeds.com/supporting-children-with-visual-impairments-in-school/
Conduct health counseling with family and coordinate community mental health support/resources.
https://www.freementalhealthservices.org/ci/az-mesa
https://www.mentalhealthlistings.net/clinics/arizona/mesa.html
https://mentalhealthproviders.com/cities/mesa-arizona-mental-health-and-substance-abuse-facilities/
https://www.freeclinics.com/cit/az-mesa
https://www.freementalhealth.us/services/mesa_community-bridges-inc
Patient Name: Flores, Daijha
DOB: 09/14/2012
Age: 14 years old
Gender: Female
Individuals present during the assessment: Daijha Flores (patient) and Sophia Flores (mother)
Referral Diagnoses:
Background Information
Daijha is a right-handed 14- year-old female referred by her primary care physician to assess cognitive-linguistic concerns after sustaining a head injury during a motor vehicle accident two weeks ago. During the accident, she sustained a laceration to the left buccal mucosa. The client’s past medical history is significant for profound hearing loss; her left cochlear implant was damaged at the time of the accident and is reportedly currently functioning well. Daijha attends Lost Dutchman school and is a student athlete. Per chart review, the Mini-Mental Status Exam (MMSE) was administered in the emergency department on 06/22/2026; Daijha had deficits with short-term working memory, immediate recall, and sustained attention. Prior to the concussion, Daijha did not have concerns with cognitive-linguistic function.
Assessment Information
Presenting Concern:
Screenings:
Formal/Informal Assessment Results
| Subtest | Classification |
|---|---|
| List Learning- | Low average |
| Story Memory- | Extremely low |
| Figure Copy+ | Average |
| Line Orientation+ | Low average |
| Picture Naming+ | Very superior |
| Sematic Fluency+ | Low average |
| Subtest | Classification |
|---|---|
| Digit Span+ | Average |
| Coding- | Borderline |
| List Recall+ | Average |
| List Recognition- | Extremely low |
| Story Recall- | Borderline |
| Figure Recall+ | Average |
| Index Score | Confidence Interval (90%) | Percentile | Descriptor | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Immediate Memory | 70 | 63-77 | 2 | Borderline |
| Visuospatial/Constructional | 93 | 78-108 | 32 | Average |
| Language | 116 | 105-127 | 86 | High Average |
| Attention | 77 | 66-88 | 6 | Borderline |
| Delayed Memory | 59 | 49-69 | 0.3 | Extremely low |
Workshop 1: Whole Person Healthcare
Workshop 2: Roles & Responsibilities
Workshop 3: Cochlear Implants
Watch an example of a past team presentation
Athletic Trainers: Athletic Trainers use a medical based model to provide comprehensive patient care in the domains of prevention; clinical evaluation and diagnosis; immediate and emergency care; treatment and rehabilitation; and organization and professional health and well-being. Athletic Trainers are highly qualified, multi-skilled health care professionals who collaborate with physicians to provide total patient care. Athletic Trainers work under the direction of a physician as prescribed by state licensure statutes.
Learn more at: http://www.nata.org/
Audiologist: "An audiologist is a person who, by virtue of academic degree, clinical training, and license to practice, is uniquely qualified to provide a comprehensive array of professional services related to the identification, diagnosis and treatment of persons with auditory and balance disorders, and the prevention of these impairments. Audiologists serve in a number of roles including primary service provider, clinician, therapist, teacher, consultant, researcher and administrator. In addition, the supervising audiologist maintains legal and ethical responsibility for all assigned audiology activities provided by audiology assistants and audiology students."
Source: Academy of Doctors of Audiology
Counselor: What is a professional counselor?
“Professional counselors help people gain personal insights, develop strategies and come up with real-life solutions to the problems and challenges they face in every area of life. As trained and credentialed professionals, they accomplish this by getting to know clients, by building safe, positive relationships and suggesting tools and techniques they believe will benefit clients.”
Learn more at: https://www.counseling.org/mental-health-counseling/what-is-counseling
Dentist: What is a Dentist?
You will find an interesting article here about the important interconnection between oral health and systemic health. So don't forget the importance of collaborating with the dentist!
Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine: “Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine use a unique whole-person approach to help prevent illness and injury.
Accounting for approximately 11% of all physicians in the United States, Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine, or DOs, bring a unique, patient-centered approach to every specialty across the full spectrum of medicine. They are trained to listen and partner with their patients to help them get healthy and stay well.”
Learn more at: https://osteopathic.org/what-is-osteopathic-medicine/what-is-a-do/
Nursing:
Registered Nurses
“Registered nurses (RN) form the backbone of health care provision in the United States. RNs provide critical health care to the public wherever it is needed.
Key Responsibilities
Learn more at: https://www.nursingworld.org/practice-policy/workforce/what-is-nursing/
Occupational Therapy: “Occupational therapy is the only profession that helps people across the lifespan to do the things they want and need to do through the therapeutic use of daily activities (occupations). Occupational therapy practitioners enable people of all ages to live life to its fullest by helping them promote health, and prevent—or live better with—injury, illness, or disability.
Common occupational therapy interventions include helping children with disabilities to participate fully in school and social situations, helping people recovering from injury to regain skills, and providing supports for older adults experiencing physical and cognitive changes.
Occupational therapy practitioners have a holistic perspective, in which the focus is on adapting the environment and/or task to fit the person, and the person is an integral part of the therapy team. It is an evidence-based practice deeply rooted in science.”
See also: https://www.aota.org/career/become-an-ot-ota/about-the-profession
Learn more at: AOTA.org
Physical Therapist: Physical therapists are movement experts who optimize quality of life through prescribed exercise, hands-on care, and patient education. After making a diagnosis, physical therapists create personalized treatment plans that help their patients improve mobility, manage pain and other chronic conditions, recover from injury, and prevent future injury and chronic disease.
Physical therapists empower people to be active participants in their own treatment, and they work collaboratively with other health professionals to ensure patients receive comprehensive care. Physical Therapy entry-level educational programs are at the doctoral level with subsequent educational opportunities for fellowship and residency. Physical therapists work in a wide range of specialty areas for which they can obtain specialty certification e.g. acute care, aquatics, cardiovascular & pulmonary, geriatrics, home health, neurology, oncology, orthopedics, pediatrics, sports, and women's health.
See also: https://www.apta.org/your-career/careers-in-physical-therapy/becoming-a-pt
Learn more at: APTA.org
Physician Assistant: What is a PA?
“PAs (physician associates/physician assistants) are licensed clinicians who practice medicine in every specialty and setting. Trusted, rigorously educated and trained healthcare professionals, PAs are dedicated to expanding access to care and transforming health and wellness through patient-centered, team-based medical practice.”
Learn more at: https://www.aapa.org/about/what-is-a-pa/
Social Worker: The profession of social work aims to improve functioning and overall well-being within individuals, families, organizations, and communities through change efforts. With a focus on the poor, the oppressed, and the vulnerable, social sciences such as sociology, psychology, political science, public health, economics, law, community and organizational change, are applied. Needs assessments are completed and interventions are planned to solve personal and social problems within client systems to enhance social change. Social work practice is often divided into three levels. Micro-work involves working directly with individuals and families, such as providing individual counseling/therapy or assisting a family in accessing services. Mezzo-work involves working with groups and communities, such as conducting group therapy or providing services for community agencies. Macro-work involves fostering change on a larger scale through advocacy, social policy, research development, nonprofit and public service administration, or working with government agencies. Professional training requires a master’s degree and most states require professional licensure. Social Workers are employed in a variety of settings including healthcare, government agencies education, corrections, public health, and public policy.
Source: Wikipedia
Speech Language Pathologist: Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) work to prevent, assess, diagnose, and treat speech, language, social communication, cognitive-communication, and swallowing disorders in children and adults.
Learn more at: https://www.asha.org/Students/Speech-Language-Pathology/
THE PUBLIC HEALTH EDUCATOR/PATIENT EDUCATOR’S ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
PUBLIC HEALTH EDUCATION: CERTIFIED HEALTH EDUCATION SPECIALISTS [CHES]:
The U.S. Department of Labor – Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has a classification of health educator and defines health educators (SOC 21-1091) as those that provide and manage health education programs that help individuals, families, and their communities maximize and maintain healthy lifestyles. Health Educators collect and analyze data to identify community needs prior to planning, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating programs designed to encourage healthy lifestyles, policies, and environments. They link health systems, health providers, insurers, and patients to address individual and population health needs. They may serve as a resource to assist individuals, other health professionals, or the community, and may administer fiscal resources for health education programs.
| Area I: Assessment | Area II: Planning | Area III: Implementation |
| Area IV: Evaluation | Area V: Research | Area VI: Advocacy |
| Area VII: Communication | Area VIII: Administration and Management | Area IX: Ethics, Leadership, and Professionalism |
Individuals who hold the CHES® and MCHES® certifications have versatility and skillsets to practice in many different career settings, across the country and even overseas. Job settings were identified in the Health Education Specialist Practice Analysis (HESPA) include the following: Community/non-profit, Healthcare/Hospitals, Government, School Health, Academia/Universities, and Business/Worksite. Job titles in the hospital and healthcare sector can vary. Some common titles include Community Benefits Manager, Outreach Manager, Patient Educator or Program Manager, Patient Navigator, Wellness Coordinator, and Health Educator. Health Education Specialists in the Health Care setting may perform the following duties:
Brief IPE-training module with sample case