Functional status of mechanically ventilated COVID-19 survivors at ICU and hospital discharge

Abstract Background A significant number of COVID-19 patients have been treated using invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV). The ability to evaluate functional status survivors early on at ICU and hospital discharge may enable identification who need medical rehabilitation interventions. Methods modified “Mental Status”, Mobility, Barthel Index scores were tabulated for 118 with These compared pre-admission status, durable equipment, follow-up recommendation, duration IMV, post-IMV, demographics, comorbidities, laboratory tests, vital signs discharge. Results majority IMV not functionally independent (22% discharged cane or rolling walker, 49% 14% admitted a facility), although 94% these prior illness. Half the supplemental oxygen equipment. most prevalent recommendations cardiology, vascular medicine, pulmonology, endocrinology, neurology many receiving multiple recommendations. Functional improved from ( p < 0.001). Worse was associated longer duration, older age, male sex, higher presence pre-existing comorbidities including hypertension, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, immunosuppression 0.05, ANOVA). Conclusions required care. circumstance has placed constraints access in-hospital rehabilitation. findings underscore prospective studies ascertain short- long-term sequela in survivors.