THE IMPORTANCE OF RESPIRATORY PHYSIOTHERAPY FOR THE PATIENT WITH ACUTE STROKE IN ICU/STROKE UNIT

Abstract

Stroke patients have an increased risk of developing aspiration pneumonia. Lack of muscle control has an impact on cough efficiency and diaphragm function. The clinical symptoms of patients with stroke in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) vary significantly. Weaning from mechanical ventilation is a difficult process in which physical therapy can make a significant contribution. The physiotherapist essentially contributes to the faster and safer extubation of these patients. The high mortality of critically ill patients with stroke is limited when patients are admitted in special units for patients with stroke due to specialized care services. Physiotherapy care for patients in the ICU and Stroke Units includes several techniques such as removing secretions, increasing pulmonary ventilation and the strengthening of respiratory muscles.