Effect of Early and Progressive Rehabilitation Protocol on Fatigue, Functional Outcome, and Kinesiophobia in Patients on Non-invasive Ventilation: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background and aims: Noninvasive ventilation (NIV) is being used increasingly in patients with respiratory conditions. The detrimental effects of intensive care unit (ICU) stay are well known and have to be minimized, and hence, a patient-centric, early, and progressive rehabilitation protocol is required. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of early and progressive rehabilitation protocol on fatigue, functional outcome, and kinesiophobia, in patients on noninvasive mechanical ventilator.

Patients and methods: Patients of both genders admitted to the ICU and with assistance of NIV, due to primary respiratory condition, were included in the study. A total of 74 patients were randomized and allocated in both control and experimental groups. Control group was given conventional physiotherapy, while the experimental group was given early and progressive rehabilitation protocol.

Results: Early and progressive mobilization protocol showed a statistically significant improvement in fatigue levels, with p < 0.001 in between groups. The functional outcome PERME ICU mobility scale showed improvements in both groups (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Early and patient-centric progressive rehabilitation protocol is safe and shown to improve the fatigue and mobility, and hence can be prescribed in patients with NIV assistance.

How to cite this article: Vaidya AC, Kapre VM, Dobhal SP, Shukla MP, Mishra AS, Tiwari V. Effect of Early and Progressive Rehabilitation Protocol on Fatigue, Functional Outcome, and Kinesiophobia in Patients on Non-invasive Ventilation: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Indian J Crit Care Med 2025;29(6):510-515.