Journal of Physiotherapy & Physical Rehabilitation

Evaluation of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Practice and Associated Barriers in Reduction of Pulmonary Complications in Critical Care Units across North Karnataka: A Survey Study

Abstract

Ganesh BR* and Samaradnyi Hichkad

Background: Physiotherapy in the Intensive care unit has shown beneficial effects to the patient, as it improves their quality of life, increases their bodily functions, improves their respiratory muscle strength and reduces hospital as well as ICU length of stay.

Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate the characteristics of physiotherapist and their different ways of treatment approach in patient care admitted in intensive care unit.

Material and Method: In this study a survey questionnaire consisting of 32 items, were electronically sent to 70 participants via mail to different tertiary hospitals in Karnataka and the response were received in the same manner.

Conclusion: The most common interventions were positioning, active, passive, breathing exercises and percussion. Critical barriers toward physiotherapy are multifactorial and related to physiotherapists, patients, team, equipment, and legal procedures. This study concluded that a proper protocol for rehabilitation in the ICU is necessary to enhance the performance and the quality of life of patients in ICU.