Role of Physiotherapyin Respiratory Rehabilitation and Managing COVID-19 Patients in All Stages of the Disease

Abstract

Background:Physiotherapists play a crucial role in the management of corona virus disease (COVID-19) patients in all stages for better health (physical and social) outcomes. This document outlines and summarizes the updated official guidelines on roles and recommendations for physiotherapists in the management of all COVID-19 stages in acute hospital settings issued by World Confederation for physical therapy, World Health Organization and Associations of Physical Therapy in various countries. Methods:An introductory literature search was conducted by using keywords including “COVID-19”, “respiratory rehabilitation”, “physical therapy”, and others in the database of the Associations of Physical Therapy. Results:Using coronavirus disease-2019 rehabilitation-related articles data was summarized on various guidelines and recommendations involving respiratory rehabilitation and general physiotherapy evaluation; treatment; indications; contraindications; and termination indicators for patients in different stages (acute, stable and recovery) of (COVID-19)Conclusion:Respiratory and physical therapy (PT) for patients with coronavirus disease should be conducted according to the stage of the disease and condition of the patient. This article is intended for use by physiotherapy personnel and other relevant health personnel in the acute care setting caring for patients with confirmed COVID-19 highlighting their roles regarding patient assessment, management strategies, indications, contraindications and termination of physical therapy.