ANALYSIS OF CRITERIA FOR INVOLVEMENT OF PHYSICAL THERAPISTS IN INTENSIVE CARE UNITS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32782/2221-1217-2026-1-10Keywords:
physical therapy, intensive care unit, early mobilization, critically ill patients, ICU-acquired weakness, safety criteria, mechanical ventilationAbstract
The relevance of this topic is related to the growing number of patients in intensive care units who are in critical condition and receive mechanical ventilation, with a high risk of complications caused by prolonged immobilization and the development of ICU-acquired weakness. The aim of the study is to analyze current data on the criteria for early, safe, and effective involvement of physical therapists in intensive care units. The paper analyzes international and Ukrainian publications from the last ten years that focus on the effects of early physical therapy on functional outcomes, duration of mechanical ventilation, length of stay in intensive care units and total hospital stay. It also examines criteria for early, safe, and effective involvement of physical therapists in ICUs, based on an individual approach to each patient, taking into account clinical condition and possible risks. It is emphasized that the effectiveness and safety of physical therapy in the ICU depend on timely assessment of the patient’s general condition, stability of vital functions, and the absence of contraindications to active interventions. The study concludes that physical therapy is an important part of comprehensive care in the ICU and should be considered an essentials component of a multidisciplinary approach. The prospects for further research include improving rehabilitation approaches for critically ill patients and adapting current recommendations to the conditions of the Ukrainian healthcare system.
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