Diaphragm Rehabilitation after Mechanical Ventilation

Course Description:

Let’s be honest, mechanical ventilation has been utilized for years for severely ill patients.  However, the presence of COVID over the last several years has really highlighted ventilation usage. Therapy prescriptions after mechanical ventilation are not just reserved for respiratory therapists. Many post-ventilator patients are being treated by physical and occupational therapists and sometimes athletic trainers. What happens to a patient’s lungs after mechanical ventilation? How can we help them return to their pre-intubation status? What exercises and activities are appropriate?

Dr. Pandya will cover:

• Identify the structures related to the anatomy and physiology of the diaphragm
• Understand and identify the physical and physiological effects of mechanical ventilation
• Identify differential diagnoses of diaphragm disorders through case studies and examples
• Recognize strengthening and stretching exercises for the diaphragm in various positions

Methods of Instruction:

Online audio/video course

Course Instructor:

Rina Pandya, PT, DPT

Target Audience:

Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants, Occupational Therapists, Occupational Therapist Assistants and Athletic Trainers.

Educational Level:

Intermediate

Prerequisites:

None

Course Goals and Objectives:

At the completion of this course, participants should be able to:

1. Identify the structures related to the anatomy and physiology of the diaphragm
2. Recognize how to perform a proper physical exam
3. Identify the differential diagnoses of diaphragm disorders
4. Identify symptoms of diaphragmatic weakness
5. Identify the effects of mechanical ventilation on the diaphragm
6. Recognize the effects of diaphragmatic breathing on return to activity
7. Recognize the importance of the diaphragm and core stabilization: balance, gait, and trunk stability
8. Identify reasons for performing diaphragmatic breathing and the subsequent physiological effects
9. Identify indications and precautions for rehabilitation
10. Identify progressive resisted exercises, active assistive exercises, techniques to strengthen the diaphragm, and diaphragm stretches

Criteria for Obtaining Continuing Education Credits:

A score of 70% or greater on the post-test