Head-down tilt and manual hyperinflation enhance sputum clearance in patients who are intubated and ventilated

The role of lung volume recruitment therapy in neuromuscular disease: a narrative review

Respiratory muscle weakness results in substantial discomfort, disability, and ultimately death in many neuromuscular diseases. Respiratory system impairment manifests as shallow breathing, poor cough and associated difficulty clearing mucus, respiratory tract infections, hypoventilation, sleep-disordered breathing, and chronic ventilatory failure. Ventilatory support (i.e., non-invasive ventilation) is an established and key treatment for the latter. As survival outcomes improve for people living with many neuromuscular diseases, there is a shift towards more proactive and preventative chronic disease multidisciplinary care models that aim to manage symptoms, improve morbidity, and reduce mortality. Clinical care guidelines typically recommend therapies to improve cough effectiveness and mobilise mucus, with the aim of averting acute respiratory compromise or respiratory tract infections. Moreover, preventing recurrent infective episodes may prevent secondary parenchymal pathology and further lung function decline. Regular use of techniques that augment lung volume has similarly been recommended (volume recruitment). It has been speculated that enhancing lung inflation in people with respiratory muscle weakness when well may improve respiratory system "flexibility", mitigate restrictive chest wall disease, and slow lung volume decline. Unfortunately, clinical care guidelines are based largely on clinical rationale and consensus opinion rather than level A evidence. This narrative review outlines the physiological changes that occur in people with neuromuscular disease and how these changes impact on breathing, cough, and respiratory tract infections. The biological rationale for lung volume recruitment is provided, and the clinical trials that examine the immediate, short-term, and longer-term outcomes of lung volume recruitment in paediatric and adult neuromuscular diseases are presented and the results synthesised.

An Update on Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy during Mechanical Ventilation

Physiotherapists are integral members of the multidisciplinary team managing critically ill adult patients. However, the scope and role of physiotherapists vary widely internationally, with physiotherapists in some countries moving away from providing early and proactive respiratory care in the intensive care unit (ICU) and focusing more on early mobilization and rehabilitation. This article provides an update of cardiorespiratory physiotherapy for patients receiving mechanical ventilation in ICU. Common and some more novel assessment tools and treatment options are described, along with the mechanisms of action of the treatment options and the evidence and physiology underpinning them. The aim is not only to summarize the current state of cardiorespiratory physiotherapy but also to provide information that will also hopefully help support clinicians to deliver personalized and optimal patient care, based on the patient's unique needs and guided by accurate interpretation of assessment findings and the current evidence. Cardiorespiratory physiotherapy plays an essential role in optimizing secretion clearance, gas exchange, lung recruitment, and aiding with weaning from mechanical ventilation in ICU. The physiotherapists' skill set and scope is likely to be further optimized and utilized in the future as the evidence base continues to grow and they get more and more integrated into the ICU multidisciplinary team, leading to improved short- and long-term patient outcomes.

Rapid chest compression effects on intracranial pressure in patients with acute cerebral injury

BACKGROUND

Patients with acute brain injury often require invasive mechanical ventilation, increasing the risk of developing complications such as respiratory secretions retention. Rapid chest compression is a manual chest physiotherapy technique that aims to improve clearance of secretions in these patients. However, the rapid chest compression technique has been suggested to be associated with increased intracranial pressure in patients with acute brain injury. The aim of this work is to elucidate the effects of the technique on intracranial pressure in mechanically ventilated patients with acute brain injury. Furthermore, the effects of the technique in different volumes and flows recorded by the ventilator and the relationship between the pressure applied in the intervention group and the different variables will also be studied.

METHODS

Randomized clinical trial, double-blinded. Patients with acute brain injury on invasive mechanical ventilation > 48 h will be included and randomized in two groups. In the control group, a technique of passive hallux mobilization will be applied, and in the intervention group, it will be performed using the rapid chest compression technique. Intracranial pressure (main variable) will be collected with an intracranial pressure monitoring system placed at the lateral ventricles (Integra Camino).

DISCUSSION

The safety of chest physiotherapy techniques in patients at risk of intracranial hyperpressure is still uncertain. The aim of this study is to identify if the rapid manual chest compression technique is safe in ventilated patients with acute brain injury.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT03609866 . Registered on 08/01/2018.

A retrospective study of physiotherapy management for patients with pneumonia requiring invasive ventilation in a single-center Australian ICU

Background:

Pneumonia is a frequent diagnosis for patients admitted to Australian intensive care units (ICUs) for invasive ventilation. Physiotherapists in ICU provide interventions to enhance respiratory function and physical recovery.

Objective:

This retrospective cohort study aimed to describe physiotherapy management of adults with pneumonia who require invasive mechanical ventilation in a single Level 3 ICU in a quaternary teaching hospital.

Methods:

All adults admitted with a medical diagnosis of pneumonia requiring invasive mechanical ventilation over a two-year period were included. Demographic and clinical data, including APACHE II score, ventilator-free days (VFDs) to day 28, ICU length of stay (LOS), and type and frequency of physiotherapy episodes of care delivered in ICU, were collected from electronic medical records. Correlations between VFDs to day 28 and the frequency of physiotherapy interventions delivered per subject were examined using Spearman’s rho analysis.

Results:

From 208 records screened, 66 subjects with an ICU admission diagnosis of pneumonia, who required invasive mechanical ventilation, were included. Median (IQR) ICU LOS was 10 (5–17) days, and mortality rate was 15.2% (n=10). The cohort had a median of 20.5 (IQR 2–25) VFDs to day 28. Community-acquired pneumonia (66.7%, n=44) was the most frequent type of pneumonia diagnosis. There were 1110 episodes of physiotherapy care, with patients receiving a median of 13.5 (IQR 6.8–21.3) episodes during their ICU stay, with a median rate of 1.2 (IQR 1.0–1.6) episodes per day. Over 96.7% of patients with pneumonia received physiotherapy treatment during their ICU stay. Overall, physiotherapy treatments consisting only of respiratory techniques were most commonly provided (55.1%, n=612). Airway suctioning (92.4%, n=61), patient positioning (72.7%, n=48) or positioning advice to nurses (77.3%, n=51), and hyperinflation techniques (63.6%, n=42) were among the respiratory techniques most delivered.

Conclusion:

This study described the current intensive care physiotherapy management in a single center for adults with pneumonia who required invasive mechanical ventilation, demonstrating that respiratory physiotherapy interventions are often provided for this ICU patient cohort. Further research is warranted to determine the efficacy of respiratory physiotherapy interventions to justify their use for ICU patients with pneumonia receiving invasive mechanical ventilation.

Immediate effects of manual hyperinflation on cardiorespiratory function and sputum clearance in mechanically ventilated pediatric patients: A randomized crossover trial

Background:

In developing countries, lower respiratory tract infection is a major cause of death in children, with severely ill patients being admitted to the critical-care unit. While physical therapists commonly use the manual hyperinflation (MHI) technique for secretion mass clearance in critical-care patients, its efficacy has not been determined in pediatric patients.

Objective:

This study investigated the effects of MHI on secretion mass clearance and cardiorespiratory responses in pediatric patients undergoing mechanical ventilation.

Methods:

A total of 12 intubated and mechanically ventilated pediatric patients were included in this study. At the same time of the day, the patients received two randomly ordered physical therapy treatments (MHI with suction and suction alone) from a trained physical therapist, with a washout period of 4 h provided between interventions.

Results:

The MHI treatment increased the tidal volume [Vt; 1.2 mL/kg (95% CI, 0.8–1.5)] and static lung compliance [Cstat; 3.7 mL/cmH₂O (95% CI, 2.6–4.8)] immediately post-intervention compared with the baseline (p<0.05). Moreover, the MHI with suction induced higher Vt [1.4 mL/kg (95% CI, 0.8–2.1)] and Cstat [3.4 mL/cmH₂O (95% CI, 2.1–4.7)] compared with the suction-alone intervention. In addition, the secretion mass [0.7 g (95% CI, 0.6–0.8)] was greater in MHI with suction compared with suction alone (p<0.05). However, there was no difference in peak inspiratory pressure, mean airway pressure, respiratory rate, heart rate, blood pressure, mean arterial blood pressure or oxygen saturation (p>0.05) between interventions.

Conclusions:

MHI can improve Vt, Cstat and secretion mass without inducing adverse hemodynamic effects upon the pediatric patients requiring mechanical ventilation.

Head-Down Tilt Bed Rest Studies as a Terrestrial Analog for Spaceflight Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome

Astronauts who undergo prolonged periods of spaceflight may develop a unique constellation of neuro-ocular findings termed Spaceflight Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome (SANS). SANS is a disorder that is unique to spaceflight and has no terrestrial equivalent. The prevalence of SANS increases with increasing spaceflight duration and although there have been residual, structural, ocular changes noted, no irreversible or permanent visual loss has occurred after SANS, with the longest spaceflight to date being 14 months. These microgravity-induced findings are being actively investigated by the United States' National Aeronautics Space Administration (NASA) and SANS is a potential obstacle to future longer duration, manned, deep space flight missions. The pathophysiology of SANS remains incompletely understood but continues to be a subject of intense study by NASA and others. The study of SANS is of course partially limited by the small sample size of humans undergoing spaceflight. Therefore, identifying a terrestrial experimental model of SANS is imperative to facilitate its study and for testing of preventative measures and treatments. Head-down tilt bed rest (HDTBR) on Earth has emerged as one promising possibility. In this paper, we review the HDTBR as an analog for SANS pathogenesis; the clinical and imaging overlap between SANS and HDTBR studies; and potential SANS countermeasures that have been or could be tested with HDTBR.

Six degrees head-down tilt bed rest caused low-grade hemolysis: a prospective randomized clinical trial

This study aimed to measure hemolysis before, during and after 60 days of the ground-based spaceflight analog bed rest and the effect of a nutritional intervention through a prospective randomized clinical trial. Twenty male participants were hospitalized for 88 days comprised of 14 days of ambulatory baseline, 60 days of 6° head-down tilt bed rest and 14 days of reambulation. Ten participants each received a control diet or daily polyphenol associated with omega-3, vitamin E, and selenium supplements. The primary outcome was endogenous carbon monoxide (CO) elimination measured by gas chromatography. Hemolysis was also measured with serial bilirubin, iron, transferrin saturation blood levels and serial 3-day stool collections were used to measure urobilinoid excretion using photometry. Total hemoglobin mass (tHb) was measured using CO-rebreathing. CO elimination increased after 5, 11, 30, and 57 days of bed rest: +289 ppb (95% CI 101-477 ppb; p = 0.004), +253 ppb (78-427 ppb; p = 0.007), +193 ppb (89-298 ppb; p = 0.001) and +858 ppb (670-1046 ppb; p < 0.000), respectively, compared to baseline. Bilirubin increased after 20 and 49 days of bed rest +0.8 mg/l (p = 0.013) and +1.1 mg/l (p = 0.012), respectively; and iron increased after 20 days of bed rest +10.5 µg/dl (p = 0.032). The nutritional intervention did not change CO elimination. THb was lower after 60 days of bed rest -0.9 g/kg (p = 0.001). Bed rest enhanced hemolysis as measured through all three by-products of heme oxygenase. Ongoing enhanced hemolysis over 60 days contributed to a 10% decrease in tHb mass. Modulation of red blood cell control towards increased hemolysis may be an important mechanism causing anemia in astronauts.

Efficacy of manual hyperinflation on arterial blood gases in patients with ventilator-associated pneumonia

Background

Tracheal intubation exposes mechanically ventilated patients to serious pulmonary complications such as ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). This study was conducted to compare the efficacy of manual hyperinflation in supine versus lateral decubitus position on arterial blood gases (ABG) in patients with VAP. Forty-two patients with ventilator-associated pneumonia with age range from 40 to 60 years were selected. They were randomly divided into two equal groups: group A who received manual hyperinflation from supine position and group B who received manual hyperinflation from lateral decubitus position (upper most affected). Both groups received respiratory physiotherapy. The patients received 2 sessions per day for 6 days. Outcome measures were arterial blood gases (PaO₂, PaCO₂, PaO₂/FiO₂, and SaO₂). They were assessed before the 1st morning session (pre), at day 3 (post 1), and at day 6 (post 2).

Results

After sessions, significant changes of measured variables (PaO₂, PaCO₂, PaO₂/FiO₂, and SaO₂) were obtained in both groups (P < 0.05, in all variables) and by comparison between groups post-intervention; a significant difference was observed between both groups in measures of oxygenation in favor of group B (P < 0.05), whereas there was a non-significant difference in the PaC02 between both groups (post 1 P = 0.52 and post 2 P = 0.33).

Conclusion

It was concluded that effect of the bag squeezing on arterial blood gases in patients with ventilator-associated pneumonia from lateral decubitus position was more effective than from supine position.

Trial registration

PACTR, PACTR201909817075549. Registered October 21, 2018—retrospectively registered

https://pactr.samrc.ac.za/TrialDisplay.aspx?TrialID=4655

Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients Admitted to the Intensive Care Unit

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive lung condition that affects a person's ability to exercise and undertake normal physical function due to breathlessness, poor physical fitness, and muscle fatigue. Patients with COPD often experience exacerbations due to pulmonary infections, which result in worsening of their symptoms, more loss of function, and often require hospital treatment or in severe cases admission to intensive care units. Recovery from such exacerbations is often slow, and some patients never fully return to their previous level of activity. This can lead to permanent disability and premature death.Physical therapists play a key role in the respiratory management and rehabilitation of patients admitted to intensive care following acute exacerbation of COPD. This article discusses the key considerations for respiratory management of patients requiring invasive mechanical ventilation, providing an evidence-based summary of commonly used interventions. It will also explore the evidence to support the introduction of early and structured programs of rehabilitation to support recovery in both the short and the long term, as well as active mobilization, which includes strategies to minimize or prevent physical loss through early retraining of both peripheral and respiratory muscles.

Clinical validation of expert consensus statements for respiratory physiotherapy management of invasively ventilated adults with community-acquired pneumonia: A qualitative study

OBJECTIVES

To conduct multidisciplinary peer-review of expert consensus statements for respiratory physiotherapy for invasively ventilated adults with community-acquired pneumonia, to determine clinical acceptability for development into a clinical practice guideline.

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

A qualitative study was undertaken using focus groups (n = 3) conducted with clinician representatives from five Australian states. Participants were senior intensive care physiotherapists, nurses and consultants. Thematic analysis was used, with a deductive approach to confirm clinical validity, and inductive analysis to identify new themes relevant to the application of the 38 statements into practice.

SETTING

Adult intensive care.

FINDINGS

Senior intensive care clinicians from physiotherapy (n = 16), medicine (n = 6) and nursing (n = 4) participated. All concurred that the consensus statements added valuable guidance to practice; twenty-nine (76%) were deemed relevant and applicable for the intensive care setting without amendment, with modifications suggested for remaining nine statements to enhance utility. Overarching themes of patient safety, teamwork and communication and culture were identified as factors influencing clinical application. Cultural differences in practice, particularly related to patient positioning, was evident between jurisdictions. Participants raised practicality and safety concerns for two statements related to the use of head-down patient positioning.

CONCLUSION

Multidisciplinary peer-review established clinical validity of expert consensus statements for implementation with invasively ventilated adults with community-acquired pneumonia.

Acute effects of ventilator hyperinflation with increased inspiratory time on respiratory mechanics: randomized crossover clinical trial

Objective

To evaluate the effects of ventilator hyperinflation on respiratory mechanics.

Methods

A randomized crossover clinical trial was conducted with 38 mechanically ventilated patients with pulmonary infection. The order of the hyperinflation and control (without changes in the parameters) conditions was randomized. Hyperinflation was performed for 5 minutes in pressure-controlled ventilation mode, with progressive increases of 5cmH₂O until a maximum pressure of 35cmH₂O was reached, maintaining positive end expiratory pressure. After 35cmH₂O was reached, the inspiratory time and respiratory rate were adjusted so that the inspiratory and expiratory flows reached baseline levels. Measurements of static compliance, total resistance and airway resistance, and peak expiratory flow were evaluated before the technique, immediately after the technique and after aspiration. Two-way analysis of variance for repeated measures was used with Tukey's post hoc test, and p < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

Ventilator hyperinflation increased static compliance, which remained at the same level after aspiration (46.2 ± 14.8 versus 52.0 ± 14.9 versus 52.3 ± 16.0mL/cmH₂O; p < 0.001). There was a transient increase in airway resistance (6.6 ± 3.6 versus 8.0 ± 5.5 versus 6.6 ± 3.5cmH₂O/Ls^-1; p < 0.001) and a transient reduction in peak expiratory flow (32.0 ± 16.0 versus 29.8 ± 14.8 versus 32.1 ± 15.3Lpm; p <0.05) immediately after the technique; these values returned to pretechnique levels after tracheal aspiration. There were no changes in the control condition, nor were hemodynamic alterations observed.

Conclusion

Ventilator hyperinflation promoted increased compliance associated with a transient increase in airway resistance and peak expiratory flow, with reduction after aspiration.

Impacts in the Respiratory Mechanics of the Ventilator Hyperinsuflation in the Flow Bias Concept: a Narrative Review

AbstractPatients who require invasive ventilatory support are subject to the deleterious effects of this, mainly ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). The physiotherapist, a member of the multiprofessional team, assists the patient with the purpose of promoting the recovery and preservation of the functionality, being able to minimize / avoid secondary complications. This study aims to identify the repercussions of mechanical ventilation hyperinflation (MVH) in the flow bias concept in respiratory mechanics. This study is a narrative review. MVH is an important resource commonly used in clinical practice that involves the manipulation of mechanical ventilator configurations to provide larger pulmonary volumes, and the generated airflow gradient may play a relevant role in mucus transport, with the concept of flow bias the main factor responsible for its direction. For the mobilization of the mucus towards the cephalic direction to occur, there must be a predominant expiratory flow, guaranteeing the peak ratio of expiratory flow / inspiratory flow peak (EFP / IFP) greater than 1.11. Maintenance of mechanical ventilation assures the patient to maintain the positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP) and the oxygen inspired fraction, avoiding the deleterious effects of the mechanical ventilator disconnection. MVH is able to improve lung compliance without, however, increasing airway resistance. MVH in the cephalic flow bias concept is effective for the mucus mobilization in the central direction, being able to improve pulmonary compliance and peripheral oxygen saturation.Keywords: Respiration, Artificial. Intensive Care Units. Physical Therapy Department, Hospital.ResumoOs pacientes internados que necessitam de suporte ventilatório invasivo estão sujeitos aos efeitos deletérios deste, principalmente a pneumonia associada à ventilação mecânica (PAV). O fisioterapeuta, integrante da equipe multiprofissional, assiste o paciente com a finalidade de promover a recuperação e preservação da funcionalidade, podendo minimizar/evitar complicações secundárias. Este estudo consiste em identificar as repercussões da hiperinsuflação com ventilador mecânico (HVM) no conceito flow bias na mecânica respiratória. O presente estudo trata-se de uma revisão narrativa. A HVM é um importante recurso comumente utilizado na prática clínica que envolve a manipulação das configurações do ventilador mecânico para fornecer maiores volumes pulmonares, e o gradiente de fluxo de ar gerado pode desempenhar um papel relevante no transporte do muco, sendo o conceito de flow bias cefálico o principal fator responsável pelo direcionamento deste. Para que a mobilização do muco em direção cefálica ocorra, deve existir um fluxo expiratório predominante, garantindo a razão pico de fluxo expiratório/pico de fluxo inspiratório (PFE/PFI) maior do que 1,11. A manutenção da assistência ventilatória mecânica assegura ao paciente a manutenção da pressão positiva ao final da expiração (PEEP) e a fração inspirada de oxigênio (FiO2), evitando os efeitos deletérios da desconexão do ventilador mecânico. A HVM é capaz de melhorar a complacência pulmonar sem, no entanto, aumentar a resistência das vias aéreas. A HVM no conceito flow bias cefálico é eficaz para a mobilização do muco em direção central, sendo capaz de melhorar a complacência pulmonar e saturação periférica de oxigênio (SpO2).Palavras-chave: Respiração Artificial. Unidades de Terapia Intensiva. Serviço Hospitalar de Fisioterapia.

Airway clearance therapy in acute paediatric respiratory illness: A state-of-the-art review

Background

Despite unclear evidence of effectiveness or safety, airway clearance therapy (ACT) is frequently performed in infants and children with acute pulmonary disease.

Objectives

The aim of this review was to critically synthesise published evidence, expert opinion and pathophysiological principles to describe the indications, effects, precautions and application of commonly used ACT modalities for managing infants and children with acute pulmonary disease.

Method

A comprehensive narrative review of published literature was conducted. Articles describing paediatric populations were prioritised, but adult and animal studies were also considered where appropriate.

Results

There is a dearth of high-level evidence supporting the use of ACT in acutely ill infants and children. Conversely, studies have highlighted the lack of effect of different modalities for a variety of conditions, and in some cases serious associated complications have been reported.Airway clearance therapy may be considered when there is retention of pulmonary secretions, and the consequential airway obstruction impacts either acutely on respiratory mechanics and gaseous exchange and/or has the potential for long-term adverse sequelae [a condition that is the consequence of a previous disease or injury]. However, it should not be considered a routine intervention.

Conclusion

Airway clearance therapy should not be performed routinely in children admitted to hospital with acute respiratory conditions. Patients should be clinically assessed and treatment planned according to individual presentation, in those with signs and symptoms that are potentially amenable to ACT.

Clinical implications

This review can serve as a guide for physiotherapists in the respiratory management of children with acute respiratory illness, as well as identifying areas for clinical research.

Expert consensus for respiratory physiotherapy management of mechanically ventilated adults with community-acquired pneumonia: A Delphi study

RATIONALE AND AIMS

Patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) are frequently admitted to an intensive care unit. Physiotherapy may be provided to optimize respiratory function; however, there is significant variability in clinical practice and limited research directing best practice for this cohort. This study aimed to determine expert consensus for best physiotherapy practice for invasively ventilated adults with CAP.

METHOD

A modified Delphi technique involved an international expert panel completing three rounds of an online questionnaire. The initial 35-statement questionnaire, based on a systematic literature review and survey of current clinical practice, covered physiotherapy assessment and treatment of intubated patients with CAP. Quantitative data using Likert scales determined level of agreement, with qualitative data collected through open-ended responses. Consensus threshold was set a priori at 70%. Items not achieving consensus were modified and new items added based on themes from qualitative data. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively, with thematic analysis used on qualitative data.

RESULTS

The panel comprised 29 international clinical and academic experts in critical care physiotherapy. Response rate was more than 95% for each round. Outcome achieved was 38 consensus statements covering assessment and treatment, with 28 statements (74%) providing consensus on recommended clinical practice, two consensus disagreement statements (7%) for what practice is not recommended, and eight statements (21%) indicating which treatments may be beneficial.

CONCLUSION

Expert consensus regarding physiotherapy for intubated adults with CAP patients provides an evidence-based approach to guide clinical practice. The consensus statements can also be used to guide research evaluating physiotherapy interventions for patients with CAP.

Physiotherapy in the neurotrauma intensive care unit: A scoping review

PURPOSE

This scoping review summarizes the literature on the safety and effectiveness of physiotherapy interventions in patients with neurological and/or traumatic injuries in the intensive care unit (ICU), identifies literature gaps and provides recommendations for future research.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We searched five databases from inception to June 2, 2018. We included published retrospective studies, case studies, observation and randomized controlled trials describing physiotherapy interventions in ICU patients with neurotrauma injuries. Two reviewers reviewed the databases and independently screened English articles for eligibility. Data extracted included purpose, study design, population (s), outcome measures, interventions and results. Thematic analysis and descriptive numerical summaries are presented by intervention type.

RESULTS

12,846 titles were screened and 72 met the inclusion criteria. Most of the studies were observational studies (44 (61.1%)) and RCTs (14 (19.4%)). Early mobilization, electrical stimulation, range of motion, and chest physiotherapy techniques were the most common interventions in the literature. Physiotherapy interventions were found to be safe with few adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

Gaps in the literature suggest that future studies require assessment of long term functional outcomes and quality of life, examination of homogenous populations and more robust methodologies including clinical trials and larger samples.

A survey of clinicians regarding respiratory physiotherapy intervention for intubated and mechanically ventilated patients with community-acquired pneumonia. What is current practice in Australian ICUs?

RATIONALE, AIMS, AND OBJECTIVES

Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a common cause for intensive care unit (ICU) admission resulting in high morbidity and mortality. There is a paucity of evidence regarding respiratory physiotherapy for intubated and mechanically ventilated patients with CAP, and anecdotally clinical practice is variable in this cohort. The aims of this study were to identify the degree of variability in physiotherapy practice for intubated adult patients with CAP and to explore ICU physiotherapist perceptions of current practice for this cohort and factors that influence physiotherapy treatment mode, duration, and frequency.

METHOD

A survey was developed based on common aspects of assessment, clinical rationale, and intervention for intubated and mechanically ventilated patients. Senior ICU physiotherapists across 88 Australian public and private hospitals were recruited.

RESULTS

The response rate was 72%. Respondents (n = 75) stated their main rationale for providing a respiratory intervention were improved airway clearance (98%, n = 60/61), alveolar recruitment (74%, n = 45/61), and gas exchange (33%, n = 20/61). Respondents estimated that average intervention lasted between 16 and 30 minutes (70% of respondents, n = 41/59) and would be delivered once (44%) or twice (44%) daily. Results indicated large variability in reported practice; however, trends existed regarding positioning in alternate side-lying (81%, n = 52/64) or affected lung uppermost (83%, n = 53/64) and use of hyperinflation techniques (81%, 52/64). Decisions regarding duration were reported to be based on sputum volume (95%), viscosity (93%) and purulence (88%), cough effectiveness (95%), chest X-ray (87%), and auscultation (84%). Sixty percent reported that workload and staffing affected intervention duration and frequency. Intervention time was more likely increased when there was greater staffing (P = .03).

CONCLUSION

Respiratory physiotherapy treatment varies for intubated patients with CAP. Further research is required to determine what is considered best practice for this patient population.

Efficacy of a respiratory physiotherapy intervention for intubated and mechanically ventilated adults with community acquired pneumonia: a systematic review protocol

REVIEW OBJECTIVES

The objective of the review is to map evidence on the efficacy of a respiratory physiotherapy intervention for intubated and mechanically ventilated adults with community acquired pneumonia (CAP). Specifically, the review seeks to investigate if respiratory physiotherapy interventions can achieve the following for intubated and mechanically ventilated adults with CAP.

In-patient physiotherapy for adults on veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation - United Kingdom ECMO Physiotherapy Network: A consensus agreement for best practice

Clinical specialist physiotherapists from the five severe respiratory failure centres in England where respiratory extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is practiced have established this consensus agreement for physiotherapy best practice. The severe respiratory failure centres are Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester; Glenfield Hospital, Leicester; Papworth Hospital, Cambridge; Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital, London and The Royal Brompton Hospital, London. Although research into physiotherapy and ECMO is increasing, there is not a sufficient amount to write evidence-based guidelines; hence the development of a consensus document, using knowledge and experience of the specialist physiotherapists working with patients receiving ECMO. The document outlines safety aspects, practicalities and additional treatment considerations for physiotherapists conducting respiratory care and physical rehabilitation.

Changes in respiratory mechanics during respiratory physiotherapy in mechanically ventilated patients

Objective

To evaluate the changes in ventilatory mechanics and hemodynamics that occur in patients dependent on mechanical ventilation who are subjected to a standard respiratory therapy protocol.

Methods

This experimental and prospective study was performed in two intensive care units, in which patients dependent on mechanical ventilation for more than 48 hours were consecutively enrolled and subjected to an established respiratory physiotherapy protocol. Ventilatory variables (dynamic lung compliance, respiratory system resistance, tidal volume, peak inspiratory pressure, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation) and hemodynamic variables (heart rate) were measured one hour before (T_-1), immediately after (T₀) and one hour after (T₊₁) applying the respiratory physiotherapy protocol.

Results

During the period of data collection, 104 patients were included in the study. Regarding the ventilatory variables, an increase in dynamic lung compliance (T_-1 = 52.3 ± 16.1mL/cmH₂O versus T₀ = 65.1 ± 19.1mL/cmH₂O; p < 0.001), tidal volume (T_-1 = 550 ± 134mL versus T₀ = 698 ± 155mL; p < 0.001), and peripheral oxygen saturation (T_-1 = 96.5 ± 2.29% versus T₀ = 98.2 ± 1.62%; p < 0.001) were observed, in addition to a reduction of respiratory system resistance (T_-1 = 14.2 ± 4.63cmH₂O/L/s versus T₀ = 11.0 ± 3.43cmH2O/L/s; p < 0.001), after applying the respiratory physiotherapy protocol. All changes were present in the assessment performed one hour (T₊₁) after the application of the respiratory physiotherapy protocol. Regarding the hemodynamic variables, an immediate increase in the heart rate after application of the protocol was observed, but that increase was not maintained (T_-1 = 88.9 ± 18.7 bpm versus T₀ = 93.7 ± 19.2bpm versus T₊₁ = 88.5 ± 17.1bpm; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Respiratory therapy leads to immediate changes in the lung mechanics and hemodynamics of mechanical ventilation-dependent patients, and ventilatory changes are likely to remain for at least one hour.

Physiotherapy practice patterns in Intensive Care Units of Nepal: A multicenter survey

Context:

As physiotherapy (PT) is a young profession in Nepal, there is a dearth of insight into the common practices of physiotherapists in critical care.

Aims:

To identify the availability of PT services in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) and articulate the common practices by physiotherapists in ICUs of Nepal.

Settings and Design:

All tertiary care hospitals across Nepal with ICU facility via an exploratory cross-sectional survey.

Subjects and Methods:

An existing questionnaire was distributed to all the physiotherapists currently working in ICUs of Nepal with 2 years of experience. The survey was sent via E-mail or given in person to 86 physiotherapists.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Descriptive and inferential statistics according to nature of data.

Results:

The response rate was 60% (n = 52). In the majority of hospitals (68%), PT service was provided only after a physician consultation, and few hospitals (13%) had established hospital criteria for PT in ICUs. Private hospitals (57.1%) were providing PT service in weekends compared to government hospitals (32.1%) (P = 0.17). The likelihood of routine PT involvement varied significantly with the clinical scenarios (highest 71.2% status cerebrovascular accident, lowest 3.8% myocardial infarction, P < 0.001). The most preferred PT treatment was chest PT (53.8%) and positioning (21.2%) while least preferred was therapeutic exercise (3.8%) irrespective of clinical scenarios.

Conclusions:

There is a lack of regular PT service during weekends in ICUs of Nepal. Most of the cases are treated by physiotherapists only after physician's referral. The preferred intervention seems to be limited only to chest PT and physiotherapists are not practicing therapeutic exercise and functional mobility training to a great extent.

The effect of two passive head-down tilt positions on diaphragm excursion in healthy adults: A preliminary study

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

A head-down tilt position could influence diaphragm excursion due to abdominal content displacement. The purpose of the study was to determine if excursion could be influenced by a head-down tilt position and if this change in excursion alters the diaphragm function.

DESIGN

Prospective quasi-experimental study.

PARTICIPANTS

Seventy healthy adult students.

INTERVENTION

Four head-down tilt positions: 1) 15° (30 seconds); 2) 15° (120 seconds); 3) 30° (30 seconds); and 4) 30° (120 seconds).

OUTCOME MEASURES

Change in diaphragm excursion was assessed using M-Mode ultrasound and diaphragm function was recorded in terms of the peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) and thoracic expansion. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), Kruskal Wallis and student's t-test.

RESULTS

The cohort consisted of 56 women (80%) and 14 men (20%) with a mean age of 20.7 (±1.7) years and a mean body mass index (BMI) of 23.0 (±3.7) kg/m(2). The greatest mean change in the hemi-diaphragm, for both genders measured from rest, was 38.8 (±11.5) mm on the left and 39.4 (±11.9) mm on the right. The greatest stretch occurred after a 30° head-down tilt for 30 seconds for both the right and left hemi-diaphragms in males and right hemi-diaphragm in females. The left hemi-diaphragm in females achieved its maximum stretch after 30° head-down tilt for 120 seconds. No significant changes in thoracic expansion or PEFR were observed but baseline values were less than predicted.

CONCLUSION

Optimal change in hemi-diaphragm excursion was obtained utilizing 30° head-down tilt positions in healthy subjects.

Chest compression with a higher level of pressure support ventilation: effects on secretion removal, hemodynamics, and respiratory mechanics in patients on mechanical ventilation

OBJECTIVE

To determine the efficacy of chest compression accompanied by a 10-cmH2O increase in baseline inspiratory pressure on pressure support ventilation, in comparison with that of aspiration alone, in removing secretions, normalizing hemodynamics, and improving respiratory mechanics in patients on mechanical ventilation.

METHODS

This was a randomized crossover clinical trial involving patients on mechanical ventilation for more than 48 h in the ICU of the Porto Alegre Hospital de Clínicas, in the city of Porto Alegre, Brazil. Patients were randomized to receive aspiration alone (control group) or compression accompanied by a 10-cmH2O increase in baseline inspiratory pressure on pressure support ventilation (intervention group). We measured hemodynamic parameters, respiratory mechanics parameters, and the amount of secretions collected.

RESULTS

We included 34 patients. The mean age was 64.2 ± 14.6 years. In comparison with the control group, the intervention group showed a higher median amount of secretions collected (1.9 g vs. 2.3 g; p = 0.004), a greater increase in mean expiratory tidal volume (16 ± 69 mL vs. 56 ± 69 mL; p = 0.018), and a greater increase in mean dynamic compliance (0.1 ± 4.9 cmH2O vs. 2.8 ± 4.5 cmH2O; p = 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

In this sample, chest compression accompanied by an increase in pressure support significantly increased the amount of secretions removed, the expiratory tidal volume, and dynamic compliance. (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:NCT01155648 [http://www.clinicaltrials.gov/]).

Acute hemodynamic responses to 30° head-down postural drainage in stable, ventilated trauma patients: a randomized crossover trial

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether 30° head-down tilt (HDT) used for secretion clearance is safe for acute trauma patients.

BACKGROUND

There are concerns that HDT may lead to cardiac irregularities in intubated patients in the ICU.

METHODS

Eleven mechanically ventilated trauma patients (25-42 yrs) without cardiovascular problems received two interventions, one supine HDT for 10 min and a control in the horizontal supine position (HS), in a crossover design.

RESULTS

Compared to baseline there were statistically significant (p < 0.05) increases in SBP (6.3 mm Hg; 95% CI 2.5, 12.7) and CVP (7.3 cm H2O; 5.7, 10.0) during 10 min HDT although these were not of clinical concern. Heart rate and oxygen saturation were unchanged. No episodes of arrhythmia or hypoxemia were observed. All values returned close to baseline during 10 min horizontal recovery. There were no significant changes during the control HS intervention.

CONCLUSION

30° HDT entails minimal risk for trauma patients who have no underlying cardiovascular disease.

Manual hyperinflation combined with expiratory rib cage compression for reduction of length of ICU stay in critically ill patients on mechanical ventilation

OBJECTIVE

Although manual hyperinflation (MH) is widely used for pulmonary secretion clearance, there is no evidence to support its routine use in clinical practice. Our objective was to evaluate the effect that MH combined with expiratory rib cage compression (ERCC) has on the length of ICU stay and duration of mechanical ventilation (MV).

METHODS

This was a prospective randomized controlled clinical trial involving ICU patients on MV at a tertiary care teaching hospital between January of 2004 and January of 2005. Among the 49 patients who met the study criteria, 24 and 25 were randomly assigned to the respiratory physiotherapy (RP) and control groups, respectively. Of those same patients, 6 and 8, respectively, were later withdrawn from the study. During the 5-day observation period, the RP patients received MH combined with ERCC, whereas the control patients received standard nursing care.

RESULTS

The two groups were similar in terms of the baseline characteristics. The intervention had a positive effect on the duration of MV, as well as on the ICU discharge rate and Murray score. There were significant differences between the control and RP groups regarding the weaning success rate on days 2 (0.0% vs. 37.5%), 3 (0.0% vs. 37.5%), 4 (5.3% vs. 37.5%), and 5 (15.9% vs. 37.5%), as well as regarding the ICU discharge rate on days 3 (0% vs. 25%), 4 (0% vs. 31%), and 5 (0% vs. 31%). In the RP group, there was a significant improvement in the Murray score on day 5.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results show that the use of MH combined with ERCC for 5 days accelerated the weaning process and ICU discharge.

Hiperinsuflação manual: revisão de evidências técnicas e clínicas

INTRODUÇÃO: A técnica de hiperinsuflação manual (HM), também conhecida como "bag squeezing" ou "bagging", foi inicialmente descrita como um recurso para melhorar a oxigenação pré e pós-aspiração traqueal, mobilizar o excesso de secreção brônquica e reexpandir áreas pulmonares colapsadas. OBJETIVO: Apresentar evidências científicas sobre os efeitos da manobra de HM como recurso fisioterapêutico, bem como suas indicações clínicas. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Realizou-se uma busca nas bases de dados eletrônicas SciELO, ScienceDirect, PubMed e PEDro, utilizando-se os descritores "hiperinsuflação manual" (manual hyperinflation) e "fisioterapia" (physiotherapy). Como critério de inclusão considerou-se: conter os descritores no título ou resumo; ensaios clínicos que abordassem "hiperinsuflação manual" e fisioterapia; textos em inglês e português; publicações entre 1994 e 2011. RESULTADOS: Foram selecionados 25 estudos e todos apontaram a importância dessa manobra na mobilização de secreções traqueobrônquicas e para reexpansão de alvéolos colapsados, devido à melhora do volume pulmonar. Adequação das trocas gasosas, melhora da oxigenação e da complacência pulmonar, prevenção e tratamento de atelectasias são outras indicações. Também é consensual a preocupação com a padronização na aplicação da técnica. Melhores resultados são alcançados quando o volume aplicado é cerca de 50% maior que o volume corrente do paciente. Precauções quanto a limites de pressão em torno de 40 cm H2O, para se evitar barotraumas, também são referidas pela maioria dos estudos. CONCLUSÃO: A literatura traz evidências que sustentam a indicação do HM para mobilização e eliminação de secreções traqueobrônquicas e prevenção de infecções/complicações, além da necessidade de padronização da técnica.

Experimental study on the efficiency and safety of the manual hyperinflation maneuver as a secretion clearance technique

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate, in a lung model simulating a mechanically ventilated patient, the efficiency and safety of the manual hyperinflation (MH) maneuver as a means of removing pulmonary secretions.

METHODS

Eight respiratory therapists (RTs) were asked to use a self-inflating manual resuscitator on a lung model to perform MH as if to remove secretions, under two conditions: as routinely applied during their clinical practice; and after receiving verbal instructions based on expert recommendations. In both conditions, three clinical scenarios were simulated: normal lung function, restrictive lung disease, and obstructive lung disease.

RESULTS

Before instruction, it was common for an RT to compress the resuscitator bag two times, in rapid succession. Proximal pressure (Pprox) was higher before instruction than after. However, alveolar pressure (Palv) never exceeded 42.5 cmH₂O (median, 16.1; interquartile range [IQR], 11.7-24.5), despite Pprox values as high as 96.6 cmH₂O (median, 36.7; IQR, 22.9-49.4). The tidal volume (VT) generated was relatively low (median, 640 mL; IQR, 505-735), and peak inspiratory flow (PIF) often exceeded peak expiratory flow (PEF), the median values being 1.37 L/s (IQR, 0.99-1.90) and 1.01 L/s (IQR, 0.55-1.28), respectively. A PIF/PEF ratio < 0.9 (which theoretically favors mucus migration toward the central airways) was achieved in only 16.7% of the maneuvers.

CONCLUSIONS

Under the conditions tested, MH produced safe Palv levels despite high Pprox. However, the MH maneuver was often performed in a way that did not favor secretion removal (PIF exceeding PEF), even after instruction. The unfavorable PIF/ PEF ratio was attributable to overly rapid inflations and low VT.

The unique contribution of manual chest compression-vibrations to airflow during physiotherapy in sedated, fully ventilated children

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to quantify the specific effects of manual lung inflations with chest compression-vibrations, commonly used to assist airway clearance in ventilated patients. The hypothesis was that force applied during the compressions made a significant additional contribution to increases in peak expiratory flow and expiratory to inspiratory flow ratio over and above that resulting from accompanying increases in inflation volume.

DESIGN

Prospective observational study.

SETTING

Cardiac and general pediatric intensive care.

PATIENTS

Sedated, fully ventilated children.

INTERVENTIONS

Customized force-sensing mats and a commercial respiratory monitor recorded force and respiration during physiotherapy.

MEASUREMENTS

Percentage changes in peak expiratory flow, peak expiratory to inspiratory flow ratios, inflation volume, and peak inflation pressure between baseline and manual inflations with and without compression-vibrations were calculated. Analysis of covariance determined the relative contribution of changes in pressure, volume, and force to influence changes in peak expiratory flow and peak expiratory to inspiratory flow ratio.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Data from 105 children were analyzed (median age, 1.3 yrs; range, 1 wk to 15.9 yrs). Force during compressions ranged from 15 to 179 N (median, 46 N). Peak expiratory flow increased on average by 76% during compressions compared with baseline ventilation. Increases in peak expiratory flow were significantly related to increases in inflation volume, peak inflation pressure, and force with peak expiratory flow increasing by, on average, 4% for every 10% increase in inflation volume (p < .001), 5% for every 10% increase in peak inflation pressure (p = .005), and 3% for each 10 N of applied force (p < .001). By contrast, increase in peak expiratory to inspiratory flow ratio was only related to applied force with a 4% increase for each 10 N of force (p < .001).

CONCLUSION

These results provide evidence of the unique contribution of compression forces in increasing peak expiratory flow and peak expiratory to inspiratory flow ratio bias over and above that related to accompanying changes from manual hyperinflations. Force generated during compression-vibrations was the single significant factor in multivariable analysis to explain the increases in expiratory flow bias. Such increases in the expiratory bias provide theoretically optimal physiological conditions for cephalad mucus movement in fully ventilated children.

Comparação entre as técnicas de vibrocompressão e de aumento do fluxo expiratório em pacientes traqueostomizados

A fisioterapia respiratória tem papel fundamental nos casos de complicações pelo excesso de secreção broncopulmonar. Manobras de remoção de secreção brônquica como a vibrocompressão e o aumento do fluxo expiratório (AFE) garantem a perviabilidade das vias aéreas. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito das manobras de AFE e vibrocompressão para remoção de secreção e suas repercussões hemodinâmicas e ventilatórias em pacientes traqueostomizados. Participaram 20 pacientes (com 18 a 73 anos) de ambos os sexos com diagnóstico fisioterapêutico de hipersecreção e/ou retenção de muco brônquico, submetidos à aplicação dessas técnicas e à remoção de secreção, que foram avaliados antes e depois da intervenção quanto a parâmetros hemodinâmicos e respiratórios. Com a aplicação da técnica de vibrocompressão foi verificada queda significativa (p<0,05) nas pressões arteriais (PA) diastólica e média de 82,2±13,4 para 77,4±13,3 mmHg e de 104,3±18,2 para 90,9±9,07 mmHg, respectivamente; o mesmo ocorreu com a PA média (p<0,05) após a aplicação da técnica de AFE, de 103,5±13,2 para 94,1±9,0 mmHg. Não houve diferença entre as técnicas aplicadas quanto ao volume de secreção removida (p=0,60). Pacientes traqueostomizados apresentaram pois redução da pressão arterial após 30 minutos da aplicação das técnicas fisioterapêuticas, mas não houve diferença entre as técnicas utilizadas quanto ao volume de secreção removida.

Physiotherapist attitudes and practices regarding head-down and modified postural drainage in the presence of heart disease

Modification of chest physiotherapy interventions is recommended for patients with concomitant respiratory and cardiac diseases. What modifications are necessary and for whom, and what strategies physiotherapists adopt when heart disease is present, have not been investigated. Consequently, few guidelines exist. A questionnaire survey was conducted to identify attitudes and practices of senior cardiopulmonary physiotherapists (SCPP) and "other" physiotherapists (OP) regarding modified and head-down postural drainage (HDPD) when heart disease is present. The overall response rate was 44% (178/407); the response rate from SCPP (78%, 50/64) was higher than from OP (37%, 128/343). Major findings included that: postural modification in the presence of heart disease is common and is not reserved for patients with severe disease; the most commonly adopted modified position is the horizontal; and that the rationale for modification is commonly based on the assumptions that the cardiovascular load is less and, thus, adverse outcomes will be avoided. In the main, the response patterns for both groups were similar, but some between-group differences were found. The findings overall suggest physiotherapists adopt a cautious approach to HDPD when heart disease is present. Whether this approach is justified remains to be investigated.

Physiotherapy for adult patients with critical illness: recommendations of the European Respiratory Society and European Society of Intensive Care Medicine Task Force on Physiotherapy for Critically Ill Patients

The Task Force reviewed and discussed the available literature on the effectiveness of physiotherapy for acute and chronic critically ill adult patients. Evidence from randomized controlled trials or meta-analyses was limited and most of the recommendations were level C (evidence from uncontrolled or nonrandomized trials, or from observational studies) and D (expert opinion). However, the following evidence-based targets for physiotherapy were identified: deconditioning, impaired airway clearance, atelectasis, intubation avoidance, and weaning failure. Discrepancies and lack of data on the efficacy of physiotherapy in clinical trials support the need to identify guidelines for physiotherapy assessments, in particular to identify patient characteristics that enable treatments to be prescribed and modified on an individual basis. There is a need to standardize pathways for clinical decision-making and education, to define the professional profile of physiotherapists, and increase the awareness of the benefits of prevention and treatment of immobility and deconditioning for critically ill adult patients.

Outcomes research in the ICU: an aid in defining the role of physiotherapy

The economic reality of consumers, funders, and regulatory agencies demanding evidence regarding the quality of care patients are receiving in the intensive care unit (ICU) will have an effect on many of the routinely used practices in ICU, including physiotherapy. Outcomes research is a method that has been used to obtain evidence for the medical and respiratory management of patients in ICU. An overview of the literature was conducted to answer the following questions: 1. What is outcomes research? 2. Which outcomes should be measured in the adult critical care environment? 3. Which outcomes are physiotherapists currently including in research reports? Outcomes research is recognized by critical care specialists as a cost-effective method of determining what works in the real world. The value of physiologic measures is questioned, whereas the importance of patient centered, economic, and traditionally accepted outcome measures is increasingly being recognized. Most physiotherapy research reports still include physiologic measurements as the primary outcome of an intervention. Outcomes research provides researchers with the tools to define the role of the physiotherapist in the critical care environment. The outcomes measured must be relevant to patients, families, and funders.

The Mapleson C circuit clears more secretions than the Laerdal circuit during manual hyperinflation in mechanically-ventilated patients: a randomised cross-over trial

QUESTION

What is the effect of the Mapleson C circuit compared with the Laerdal circuit in removing secretions and improving ventilation and gas exchange during manual hyperinflation?

DESIGN

Prospective, randomised, cross-over trial.

PARTICIPANTS

Twenty patients from a tertiary-level intensive care unit who were being mechanically ventilated.

INTERVENTION

Manual hyperinflation in side-lying with both the Mapleson C or Laerdal circuit on the one day, one circuit in the morning and one in the afternoon, with a washout period of at least three hours between them.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Secretion clearance was measured as sputum weight, ventilation was measured as respiratory compliance and tidal volume, while gas exchange was measured as oxygenation and CO2 removal.

RESULTS

The Mapleson C circuit cleared 0.89 g (95% CI 0.80 to 1.15) more secretions than the Laerdal circuit (p < 0.02). There was no difference between the Mapleson C and the Laerdal circuits on respiratory compliance (p = 0.81), tidal volume (p = 0.45), oxygenation (p = 0.28), or CO2 removal (p = 0.17).

CONCLUSION

Although more secretions were cleared using the Mapleson C compared with the Laerdal circuit in this study, this had no consequence in terms of oxygenation and compliance only trended to improve. As the study was underpowered the clinical significance of these findings is not clear.

Positioning practices for ventilated intensive care patients: current practice, indications and contraindications

To investigate the process of providing patient positioning in intensive care units (ICUs), a self-reported survey was distributed to a senior physiotherapist and a nurse in each of the 38 Level 3 Australian ICUs. The survey explored the rationales, aims, type, frequency and duration of directed patient positioning used, and perceived risks that may impede the implementation of an effective positioning regime. The response rate was 93%. Fifty nine respondents (83%) agreed that there is an accepted standard of care for the duration of a position change with ventilated patients. Of these respondents, 51 (86%) agreed that the standard is to turn patients every 2 hours, but this was only achievable "more than 50% of the time" in 47% (n=34) of ICUs. Educational and environmental issues were found to impact on positioning practices. Semi-recumbent and full side-lie positions were recommended in the management of a range of patient conditions. However, full side-lie was less commonly used than supine positioning. The prone and head down tilt positions were the least frequently utilised. Levels of agreement for precautions and contraindications to positioning patients into full side-lie and sitting were high. We conclude that, in Australia, experienced ICU physiotherapy and nursing staff are aware of evidence-based positioning practices and agree on indications and potential risk factors associated with positioning. However, educational and environmental resources are needed to improve the frequency and type of positioning used. Results from this survey can now be incorporated into educational tools to facilitate the safe use of positioning.

Pattern of ventilation during manual hyperinflation performed by physiotherapists

Summary The aim of this prospective observational study was to document patterns of ventilation during manual hyperinflation by physiotherapists. Manual hyperinflation with a Mapleson-F system was performed on the same patients on two consecutive days. Patterns of ventilation were recorded using a heated pneumotachometer, pressure transducer and custom designed data acquisition and analysis systems. The mean (SE) results were: inspiratory time 1.45 (0.10) s; volume delivered 1.23 (0.07) l; peak inspiratory and expiratory flow rate 1.51 (0.06) l.s(-1) and 3.26 (0.30) l.s(-1), respectively and I : E flow rate ratio 0.63 (0.05). All the physiotherapists achieved an increase in volume which was delivered within a safe and effective pressure range and without cardiovascular compromise. Most (26 out of 34 sessions) performed the technique in the way recommended for enhancing secretion clearance. This is the first study to document comprehensively the pattern of ventilation during manual hyperinflation and provides the basis for further clinical trials evaluating its effectiveness for secretion clearance and volume restoration.

A modified postural drainage position produces less cardiovascular stress than a head-down position in patients with severe heart disease: A quasi-experimental study

QUESTION

Does a modified postural drainage position (horizontal) produce less cardiovascular and respiratory stress than a head-down postural drainage position (30 degrees) in people with severe heart disease?

DESIGN

A quasi-experimental study.

PARTICIPANTS

Thirty-one patients (mean age 69 years, SD 13) with severe left ventricular systolic dysfunction (mean ejection fraction 23%, SD 7) who were stable, receiving regular medication and free of acute respiratory illness.

INTERVENTION

Two manoeuvres were performed--one from long sitting to a modified (horizontal) postural drainage position, and one from long sitting to a head-down (30 degrees) postural drainage position.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Cardiovascular responses examined were blood pressure, sphygmocardiographic indices, and cardiac rhythm. Respiratory responses examined were respiratory rate, transcutaneous arterial oxyyhaemoglobin saturation, and dyspnoea.

RESULTS

Three participants were intolerant to the postural drainage positions--two during head-down and one during modified positioning. The remaining 28 participants maintained their resting cardiac rhythm and did not complain of chest pain or dyspnoea. The changes in cardiovascular responses during the sitting to head-down postural drainage manoeuvre in the tolerant participants were significantly greater (p < 0.05) than the changes during the sitting to the modified postural drainage manoeuvre for most of the sphygmocardiographic indices. In contrast, there were no significant respiratory responses to either postural drainage manoeuvre.

CONCLUSION

Modified positioning is associated with less cardiovascular stress than head-down positioning, yet for most patients with severe heart disease, both positions are generally well tolerated. For a subset of these patients, either position may be inappropriate. This suggests that modified positioning should be attempted first but that a head-down position may be attempted if the modified position proves ineffective.

Effects of manual hyperinflation and suctioning in respiratory mechanics in mechanically ventilated patients with ventilator-associated pneumonia

Ventilator-associated pneumonia results from bacterial colonisation of the aerodigestive tract or aspiration of contaminated secretions into the lower airways. As a consequence of infection of the lung parenchyma and alveolitis, accumulation of inflammatory exudates and infiltration of airway mucosa can lead to unfavourable respiratory mechanics in ventilator-associated pneumonia. Tracheal suction is often employed by nursing staff in the management of mechanically ventilated patients with ventilator-associated pneumonia but this technique has the potential to increase respiratory resistance. Manual hyperinflation is used by physiotherapists to improve lung volume and mobilise secretions and has been shown to increase lung compliance. The effect of manual hyperinflation on airway resistance has not been studied. This study aims to demonstrate an additional mechanical benefit to the respiratory system when manual hyperinflation and suction techniques are combined, by comparing the application of manual hyperinflation and suction with suction alone on static lung compliance (C(L)) and inspiratory resistance (R(AW)) in mechanically ventilated patients with ventilator-associated pneumonia. Fifteen adult patients with ventilator-associated pneumonia were recruited and acted as their own controls. Manual hyperinflation followed by suction (manual hyperinflation plus suction) and suction alone were applied consecutively, in random order, on two occasions, four hours apart. Respiratory variables, C(L) and R(AW), were measured five times and the averaged value documented. Data were recorded before, immediately after, and 30 minutes after each intervention protocol. C(L) increased by 22% and R(AW) decreased by 21%, up to 30 minutes after manual hyperinflation plus suction, but not after suction alone. This study suggests that manual hyperinflation in conjunction with suction induces beneficial changes in respiratory mechanics in mechanically ventilated patients with ventilator-associated pneumonia.