Physical therapy
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Physical therapists, as integral members of the multidisciplinary team in cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation, should be knowledgeable about methods for assessing outcomes for their patients, and they need to understand the value of aggregated data in improving interventions. Definitions are discussed, and appropriate data used to monitor function are identified, including data used in the assessment of well-being. ⋯ A discussion of how to select outcomes to assess and the value of outcome information for program management is included. Therapists are in a position to encourage and participate in widespread, collaborative measurement of disease-specific clinical outcomes, patient functioning, and well-being, which should improve the effectiveness and efficiency of cardiopulmonary rehabilitation.
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Lung transplantation requires the skillful attention of a health care team to provide optimal results. The physical therapist is an integral part of this team, providing expertise in exercise testing and prescription in all phases, from initial evaluation through postoperative rehabilitation and beyond. ⋯ It is important for the physical therapist to stay abreast of the evolving field of lung transplantation, including medications and complications. The physical therapist has a critical role in helping lung transplant recipients achieve optimal function, increased survival, and improved quality of life.