Physiotherapy to the surgical wards and intensive care

The physiotherapy role is concerned with the assessment, education treatment and rehabilitation of patients admitted in the above clinical area. The physiotherapy intervention can commence prior to surgery for patients who have known pulmonary disease, who may be given education and advice on chest clearance techniques and optimisation of pulmonary function.

Early postoperative physiotherapy will concentrate on the management of respiratory dysfunction and will quickly progress to rehabilitation including progression of mobility and activities of daily living. Temporary or permanent issue of mobility aids may be organised.

Patients with severe disability following surgery or a prolonged period of care in ITU may require a range of physiotherapy treatments. The physiotherapists work as an integral part of the multidisciplinary team, and will take a lead in discharge planning and rehabilitation of this group of patients.

As the same team of physios care for the patient on the Intensive care unit, High dependency and the surgical wards this ensures a consistent and progressive approach to the patient’s rehabilitation needs.

The physiotherapy team liaise with community and out patient services to continue follow on physio, as required, when patients are discharged from hospital.

Physiotherapy is provided to Intensive Care and the Surgical Wards 7 days/ week and an On-Call service is provided for the treatment of respiratory problems which may occur outside the normal working day.

Clinical skills

• Advanced Respiratory management of patients, including intensive care.
• Early Rehabilitation, of the acutely unwell patient.
• Rehabilitation of patients following Head & Neck surgery and referral on to out –patient services
• Care of patients following Breast Surgery and Liaison with specialist lymphoedema Physiotherapist.
• Assessment of mobility and provision of walking aids.
• Liaison with specialist physiotherapist in Oncology & Palliative Care

Where we are

This is an in-patient service at York Hospital.