title: Physical therapy for the acutely ill medical patient.
abstract: Chest physical therapy for acutely ill medical patients is a specialty that has evolved in response to patient need and medical progress. With the ability to support the patient's respiratory system mechanically came the requirement to manage acute and chronic lung injuries and their complications. Techniques of evaluation and treatment are discussed. A literature review focusing  on treatment techniques for acutely ill patients and the efficacy of these treatments is included.
mesh_terms: D000208:Acute Disease; D001945:Breathing Exercises; D006801:Humans; D008171:Lung Diseases / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities / Q000379:methods*; D011187:Posture; D012128:Respiratory Distress Syndrome / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D013396:Suction; D014732:Vibration / Q000627:therapeutic use