Intensive care unit-acquired weakness: implications for physical therapist management.

ABSTRACT: Patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) can develop a condition referred to as "ICU-acquired weakness." This condition is characterized by profound weakness that is greater than might be expected to result from prolonged bed rest. Intensive care unit-acquired weakness often is accompanied by dysfunction of multiple organ systems. Individuals with ICU-acquired weakness typically have significant activity limitations, often requiring physical assistance for even the most basic activities associated with bed mobility. Many of these individuals have activity limitations months to years after hospitalization. The purpose of this article is to review evidence that guides physical rehabilitation of people with ICU-acquired weakness. Included are diagnostic criteria, medical management,

SUBMITTER: Nordon-Craft A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3513482 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature