The use of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) in patients admitted to Intensive Care Units: A bibliographic review

Abstract

Immobility, physical deconditioning, and muscle weakness are common problems in mechanically ventilated patients. Physiotherapy emerges as a science capable of promoting recovery and preservation of the functionality of these patients. For patients who can not or can not perform active exercises an alternative form is neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES). The aim of this study is to show the efficacy of NMES in the treatment and prevention of the consequences of immobility in patients admitted to intensive care units (ICUs), in which pathology is most frequently used and at which time this technique is more indicated. The research consisted of an exploratory literature review, with a qualitative approach. The application of NMES has been associated with increased muscle mass, strength and endurance, requires minimal cooperation, produces little cardiorespiratory stress, and less personal involvement. In patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), NMES has been used safely and effectively, and has better results when applied late. The use of this technique is also able to change the oxygenation values and energy values of the metabolism in a favorable way. From the studies found and their respective findings, it is concluded that NMES is a low cost and reliable technique, being investigated, mostly, in patients with COPD, obtaining good results, especially when used in the late phase of the disease.