COVID-19 Scientific Advisory Group Rapid Evidence Report
COVID-19 Scientific Advisory Group. (2020).
Winnipeg (Canada): Alberta Health Services, 1-27.
This is a guideline providing recommendations on the rehabilitation needs of COVID-19 patients. Although a systematic review was conducted, results indicated a paucity of evidence on the topic of rehabilitation for critically ill COVID-19 patients. Therefore, the recommendations relied on guidelines, expert consensus papers, and expert opinion. "This review should be read as a 'rapid guidance summary,' rather than a rapid evidence review" (p. 4).
Alberta Health Services (Canada)
<div>Due to the anticipated rehabilitation needs of critically ill COVID-19 patients after acute care discharge, it is strongly recommended that patients and families be provided with education at time of discharge regarding the immediate and short-term recommendations for rehabilitation goals, interventions, and follow up.</div>
<div>Patients with a history of COVID-19 in the acute care setting should be systematically screened for diverse rehabilitation needs. Initiation of rehabilitation programs should be based on the presence of:</div>
<ul>
<li>impaired respiratory function and sequelae of COVID-19; </li>
<li>prolonged and isolated immobilization; and </li>
<li>the intensive care unit stay.</li>
</ul>
