With the surge of COVID-19 patients that have overwhelmed hospitals across the nation, successful patient recovery is top of mind. As research is rapidly being developed, long-term recovery is still unclear for patients.
Patients that suffer from injury or illness receive a positive recovery outcome with post-acute care rehabilitation and coronavirus patients have shown many benefits.
Healthcare Research of COVID-19 Patients
The treatments and guidelines that track the illness are updated almost daily. During this time, all avenues of rehabilitation can be considered a method of recovery.
Healthcare professionals treating patients with COVID-19 are considering the physical, cognitive, and psychosocial presentation in survivors. Papers published early on have come from China and Italy, countries that were heavily affected. These insights can help paint a picture of what longer-term outcomes may look like.
Patients with Exposure to Similar Viruses
WHO reported that while most people with COVID-19 develop a mild or uncomplicated illness, approximately 14% develop severe versions of the disease that require oxygen support, and 5% require admission to an intensive care unit.
An estimate of the post-acute need for COVID-19 was given by examining similar viruses by the online journal Health Affairs. SARS-CoV, a viral respiratory infection, has similar rates of severe respiratory complications to COVID-19 patients, albeit a higher fatality rate. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, patients with such conditions can benefit from oxygen therapy and physiotherapy management.
Physical Representations and Post-Acute Care Exercises
SARS mainly causes respiratory symptoms along with diarrhea, while MERS causes more gastrointestinal and kidney symptoms along with respiratory symptoms. COVID-19 appears to cause a wider variety of symptoms that are related to many systems like cardiac, kidney, and nervous systems.
Post-acute care patients are recommended to avoid aggravating respiratory distress during rehabilitation and carry out light exercise therapy with monitoring. Additionally, mobilization and physiotherapy should begin in the early phases. Speech-language pathologists should also assess and treat dysphagia and voice impairments resulting from intubation and may address respiratory strength and coordination.
South Coast Post Acute Patient-Centered Care
As a premier post-acute care center in Santa Ana, our skilled nursing staff provides a thorough assessment and individualized treatment plan, which focuses on function, disability, and return to society. Contact us today!
Exceptional, compassionate care; every time, every touch.