EFFECT OF MODIFIEDPULMONARY REHABILITATION IN PROMPT RESTORATION OF FUNCTIONAL INDEPENDENCE: A POST COVID CASE REPORT

Abstract

Novel coronavirus (COVID-19) also known as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is known to cause severe pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome which causes breathing difficulty requiring ICU management and assisted ventilation. A male patient, 50 years old was admitted to the hospital with complaints of breathlessness, morning chest pain with palpitations and low saturation level, and hypoxia on room air. The patient was a known case of COVID-19. ABG revealed metabolic alkalosis with partially compensated respiratory acidosis. CBC revealed leukocytosis suggestive of infection and HB count was decreased. HRCT thorax was done given COVID positive PCR test and was suggestive of multiple patchy ground-glass attenuations in the left upper and bilateral lower lobes of lungs. A repeat HRCT thorax was done after 3 months, which was suggestive of diffuse patchy ground-glass opacities with interloper septal segment giving crazy paving pattern and consolidation in both lungs. Physiotherapy intervention included patient education, breathing retraining, airway clearance techniques, positioning, walking program with supplemented oxygen, and psychological support. Outcome measures have shown enhancement in functional independence and performance of activities of daily living. Modified pulmonary rehabilitation has worked efficiently in improving the general condition of a post COVID patient.