In this review: "Recommendations for Hospital-Based Physical Therapists Managing Patients With COVID-19" (PTJ, June 18, 2020)

The Message
According to recent recommendations developed by physical therapy researchers in the Netherlands, physical therapist management of patients hospitalized with COVID-19 "should be tailored to the individual patient’s needs," particularly for individuals who have severe or critical illness, are over 70, or have obesity or other comorbid conditions. The recommendations focus on PT management of respiratory problems and deconditioning, including intensive care unit-acquired weakness and post-intensive care syndrome, for patients in the ICU or COVID-19 ward.

The study was published in a "PTJ COVID-19 virtual issue" that aims to fast-track relevant studies on the role of physical therapy during the pandemic. Other articles available in the virtual issue include "Translating COVID-19 Evidence to Maximize Physical Therapists’ Impact and Public Health Response," and " Decision Making: Physical Therapist Intervention for Patients With COVID-19 in a Geriatric Setting."