The current physical therapy regimens of 108 consecutive patients attending a regional cystic fibrosis unit.
Comprehensive assessment of patients attending the Regional Cystic Fibrosis Unit includes a detailed evaluation of their physical therapy habits and management. The following were analysed during the assessment by the physiotherapist: the frequency of patient contact with a physiotherapist, the techniques used for chest clearance, the exercise habits, the postural drainage equipment used, if any, and the frequency of respiratory cultures. The results were divided into three groups: group 1, 72 patients (66%), were first-referral patients (FR) to our cystic fibrosis unit; group 2, 26 (24%), received all their care at our unit (CFU); group 3, 10 (9%), were attending a local hospital but had had a previous assessment at our unit (PA). For all factors examined the CFU and PA patients had a more effective management than the FR patients cared for by local hospitals, with the conclusion drawn that regular contact with a physiotherapist at a cystic fibrosis unit improves the understanding, compliance, and effectiveness of the patient's treatment programme.
Morton
S
S
Regional Cystic Fibrosis Unit, St. James's University Hospital, Leeds, England.
Gilbert
J
J
Littlewood
J M
JM
D000554:Ambulatory Care Facilities; D001945:Breathing Exercises; D002648:Child; D003550:Cystic Fibrosis / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D006801:Humans; D010349:Patient Compliance; D005082:Physical Exertion; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D011187:Posture