[Management of the pulmonary secretions in the critical patient]

Abstract

Pulmonary complications in critical patient, derived from the baseline disease, immobility and nosocomial infections, are one of the major problems in their management. Respiratory physiotherapy programs help to solve some of these problems. However, the available evidence is scarce both critical patients and chronic out-patients. In recent years, the physiotherapy techniques applied in chronic patients are being used in critical patients, improving oxygenation, compliance and aspiration of secretions, although without effects on mean stay and mortality. This article reviews the recommendations of the scientific societies related with physiotherapy in critical patients and presents the different techniques.