Recovering of oxygenation, physical function and disability in patients with Covid-19

Monaldi Arch Chest Dis. 2021 Apr 9;91(4). doi: 10.4081/monaldi.2021.1817.

Abstract

The present case report describes middle-time course of respiratory and physical variables in eight Covid-19 patients who were transferred from ICU of Covid Hub in our subacute Covid-19 unit. Secondly they were admitted in a pulmonary rehabilitation unit and, at discharge, a tele-rehabilitation program was provided as a continuum of care at home. Time course of oxygenation, physical function and disability were recorded. As expected, the acute event produced in these patients a dramatic worsening in oxygenation and physical activities, with a substantial improvement in oxygenation and mild disability after the sub-acute stay. After rehabilitation program, the patients showed additional improvement in particular in physical function. Anyway, this recover was not complete for all patients. The majority of Covid-19 survivors experienced ARF recovered oxygenation, physical function and disability within a median time of 137 days. A minority needs further follow up and rehabilitation maintenance due to incomplete recovery.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19*
  • Hospitalization
  • Humans
  • Intensive Care Units
  • Patient Discharge
  • SARS-CoV-2