Physiotherapy in Neurological Conditions: AB No: 179: Is Assessment of Balance Important in SARS �CoV-2 Survivors before discharge?

ABSTRACT

Purpose: To emphasize the importance of Balance assessment as integral part of SARS SARS-CoV-2 rehabilitation so that a ‘'future pandemic” of falls can be prevented. Relevance Balance assessment in acute-care setting can help prevent falls and subsequent consequences complication during the course of rehabilitation. Participants: SARS –CoV-2 recovered survivors (n=130), who were admitted for a minimum of 7 days and on O2 support. Methods: Institutional Ethic committee approval was obtained. Patients admitted to the hospital with a confirmed diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 who were on O2 support and minimum duration of hospital stay>7 days were recruited for the study. Balance impairment was assessed using Tinette POMA and the obtained data was analyzed. Analysis: DescriptiveResults: A total of (n=130) patients were identified, 54 patients were at risk of falls, 36 were at high risk and 18 were at moderate risk of fall. In the results, there is a significant balance impairment in O2 dependent SARS-CoV-2 survivors. Conclusion: Balance Assessment should be included in SARS-CoV-2 survivors so that a tailored exercise prescription can be formulated that will not only enhance their functional activities but also reduce the risk of falls and may prevent further complications. Implications Balance Assessment will help to identify the patient who are at high risk of falls and effective rehabilitation can be planned. Early detection of fall risk through balance assessment paves way for targeted, integrated intervention through a tailored exercise program based on the findings thus, reducing the burden of the patient and healthcare system in general.