| Title: | The activity of an acute hospital’s post-COVID19 physiotherapy service from April to October 2021 |
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| Author(s): | K. O'Brien, C. Bannan, P. Nadarajan, B. Kent, L. Townsend. |
| Institution: | St. James's Hospital |
| Poster: | Click to view poster |
| Category: | COVID 19 |
| Abstract: | Little is known about the rehabilitation needs of those who are recovering from COVID-19. The aim of this study is to describe the activity of a post COVID-19 physiotherapy service in a large acute teaching hospital. In May 2020, a post COVID-19 multidisciplinary clinic was established to provide follow-up care to both patients and staff members who tested positive for COVID-19. The physiotherapist’s role at this weekly clinic is to assess patients’ physical functioning during their recovery from COVID-19. The physiotherapy assessment includes collection of information on baseline/current exercise levels and return to work status as well as an evaluation of any persistent symptoms. Following assessment, a plan of care is developed. Between April and August 2021, 117 patients were referred to the physiotherapy service. 20% (n=24) were given advice on their recovery trajectory and education on returning to physical activity and discharged at the time of initial assessment. 21% (n=25) were referred to community based services including post COVID-19 community rehabilitation. 34% (n=40) were enrolled onto a 6-week virtual exercise programme. 24.5% (n=28) were followed-up for 1:1 physiotherapy sessions for more individualised care. As post COVID-19 rehabilitation models of care begin to emerge, this study will inform the follow-up rehabilitation needs of this new patient cohort. |
