A pragmatic implementation of a 6-day physiotherapy service in a mixed inpatient rehabilitation unit
Journal article
Caruana, Erin L., Kuys, Suzanne S., Clarke, Jane and Bauer, Sandra G.. (2017). A pragmatic implementation of a 6-day physiotherapy service in a mixed inpatient rehabilitation unit. Disability and Rehabilitation. 39(17), pp. 1738 - 1743. https://doi.org/10.1080/09638288.2016.1211181
Authors | Caruana, Erin L., Kuys, Suzanne S., Clarke, Jane and Bauer, Sandra G. |
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Abstract | Purpose: This study determined the impact of a pragmatic 6-day physiotherapy service on length of stay, functional independence, gait and balance in people undergoing inpatient rehabilitation, compared to a 5-day service. Method: A prospective cohort study with historical comparison was undertaken in a mixed inpatient rehabilitation unit. Intervention period participants (2011) meeting inclusion criteria were eligible for a 6-day physiotherapy service. All other participants, including the historical cohort (2010) received usual care (5-day physiotherapy). Length of stay, functional independence, gait and balance performance were measured. Results: A total of 536 individuals participated in this study; 270 in 2011 (60% received 6-day physiotherapy) and 266 in 2010. Participants in 2011 showed a trend for reduced length of stay (1.7 days, 95%CI −0.53 to 3.92) compared to 2010. Other measures showed no significant differences between cohorts. In 2011, those receiving 6-day physiotherapy were more dependent, but showed significantly improved functional independence and balance compared to those receiving 5-day physiotherapy (p < 0.040) without impacting length of stay. Conclusion: Implementing a 6-day physiotherapy service in a “real-world” rehabilitation setting demonstrated a trend towards reduced length of stay, and improved functional gains. This service could lead to cost-savings for hospitals and improved patient flow. |
Keywords | physiotherapy; rehabilitation; Saturday service; 6-day service; length of stay; outcomes |
Year | 2017 |
Journal | Disability and Rehabilitation |
Journal citation | 39 (17), pp. 1738 - 1743 |
Publisher | Taylor & Francis |
ISSN | 0963-8288 |
Digital Object Identifier (DOI) | https://doi.org/10.1080/09638288.2016.1211181 |
Scopus EID | 2-s2.0-84982141453 |
Page range | 1738 - 1743 |
Research Group | School of Allied Health |
Publisher's version | File Access Level Controlled |
Place of publication | United Kingdom |
Editors | D. Muller |
https://acuresearchbank.acu.edu.au/item/874w9/a-pragmatic-implementation-of-a-6-day-physiotherapy-service-in-a-mixed-inpatient-rehabilitation-unit
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