Mechanical Ventilation and Advanced Oxygen Support for the Rehabilitation Therapist

Course overview

Rehabilitation therapy for patients requiring advanced oxygen support and mechanical ventilation is a growing area of practice for ICU physical and occupational therapists. In addition to progressing ICU and advanced support practice for both cardiac and pulmonary conditions, the COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated increased utilization and longer durations of oxygen support in patients with COVID-related respiratory failure. The speaker will review relevant lab values, sedation considerations, and potential challenges that therapists may be faced with while working with this population and provide tools to advocate for improved mobility practice. Experiences will be shared regarding gaining physician, nursing, and respiratory therapy buy-in, up-training therapy staff, and progressing patient mobility with interdisciplinary care. Case studies will be reviewed and patient outcomes discussed to provide examples of rehabilitation interventions to progress beyond early mobility with lessons and considerations for PTs and OTs in all areas of practice.