| Title: | An overview of the establishment and delivery of a Virtual Pulmonary Rehabilitation Programme in Cork University Hospital for patients following COVID 19 infection. |
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| Author(s): | O’Grady M, Bowen B, Sadlier C, Plant B, Kennedy M, Henry M, Murphy D |
| Institution: | Cork University Hospital |
| Poster: | Click to view poster |
| Category: | COVID-19 |
| Abstract: | COVID- 19 survivors can have subsequent deconditioning and chronic lung damage leading to breathlessness. Given the need for social distancing, many services have enhanced clinical management utilising technology. We sought to use technology to implement a virtual pulmonary rehabilitation (VPR) programme for patients hospitalised with COVID-19. Although evidence for rehabilitation following Covid -19 is limited, PR is established as a key management strategy in the treatment of people with chronic respiratory disease. PR reduces symptoms, increases function and improves QoL in individuals with respiratory disease. A 6 week exercise and educational programme was designed and provided to 8 participants, who had been hospitalised with COVID -19. Median age was 54 years. Pre and post programme assessments, including 1 min STS, HADS, FSS (Fatigue Severity Scale) and MMRC, were completed. Post programme spirometry was carried out and a programme evaluation form was completed. To date, 7 participants have completed the course. Although not statistically significant, 86% of participants 1min STS improved by ≥ 3 RPM, FSS score improved in 86%. FEV1 was ≥90% predicted in 71% of participants and 72 % reported that they favoured a virtual over face to face programme.This data demonstrates the feasibility of VPR in this population. |
