Physical Impairments in Survivors of Critical Illness

Despite surviving critical illness, limitations in physical function can be present for months to years following hospital discharge. Physical disability in survivors of critical illness may present as an impairment in a single body function or as multiple deficits by affecting several body structures and domains. Physical therapists should utilize performance-based and self-report outcome measures to assess physical disability in individuals surviving critical illness; assessment should occur early during recovery and be repeated based on individual needs. This chapter reviews the literature highlighting the frequency and severity of physical impairment and disability related to post-intensive care syndrome and describes physical therapy approaches for screening, assessment, and interventions for survivors of critical illness. In this chapter, we use the term physical disability to be inclusive of the physical symptoms, impairments, and limitations in physical function commonly experienced in survivors of critical illness.