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A pragmatic implementation of a 6-day physiotherapy service in a mixed inpatient rehabilitation unit
Caruana, Erin L. Kuys, Suzanne S. Clarke, Jane Bauer, Sandra G.
Caruana, Erin L.
Kuys, Suzanne S.
Clarke, Jane
Bauer, Sandra G.
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
Date
2017
Type
Journal article
Journal
Disability and Rehabilitation
Book
Volume
39
Issue
17
Page Range
1738-1743
Article Number
ACU Department
Faculty of Health Sciences
School of Allied Health
School of Allied Health
Collections
Relation URI
Source URL
Event URL
Open Access Status
License
File Access
Controlled