Critical Care

If you require referral to the Therapy team within Critical Care, your referral will likely be discussed in your best interests, as very often, it may not be possible to discuss this with you as this time, either due to being unwell or under sedation. Treatment can be provided to patients who are both awake and alert and ‘asleep’ under sedation.  

  • Your ability to breathe for yourself (equipment may be used to help clear your lungs)
  • Your ability to move for yourself.
  • Consider positioning to maintain comfort and function
  • How you are able to communicate and work with the speech therapists and be provided with tools to help overcome problems
  • Consider your mood & provide psychological input to discuss your mood throughout your stay
  • Support daily orientation as you may experience delirium due to your illness, surgery or medication
  • Support &  educate family members & request photos to be brought to the unit
  • Your memory and concentration.
  • Your abilities, routines and preferences

We aim to monitor your progress and help provide rehabilitation throughout your hospital journey

Where appropriate, you will be provided with follow up support to identify your progress following hospital discharge with aim to address any issues you may be experiencing following your critical illness. Referrals may be made to community services to aid with this.

Surgery

Patients that have been referred to therapy following surgery will have an initial assessment to help formulate an appropriate treatment plan.

  • Support & education
  • Chest clearance whilst supporting your wound area
  • Breathing exercises will be demonstrated
  • You will be encouraged & supported with early mobilisation & daily activities
  • We work closely with the Colorectal nurses regarding acceptance & management of your Stoma
  • We work alongside the pain team to ensure you are comfortable when moving
  • We are here to support you with body image and confidence following your surgery
  • Support with discharge planning and recommendations of equipment if required.
  • Educate on fatigue/ Energy management.
  • Support with your mood and anxieties.
  • Support with Delerium and orientation as you may experience difficulties following your surgery.  

We will be available to support you and your family whilst requiring therapy