Development of a physical function outcome measure (PFIT) and a pilot exercise training protocol for use in intensive care.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To develop an outcome measure as a basis for prescribing and evaluating rehabilitation in the critically ill, and to measure its reliability and responsiveness to change. The study also aimed to assess the feasibility and safety of a pilot exercise training protocol in an intensive care unit. METHODS: We developed a battery of tests (the Physical Function ICU Test [PFIT]) to measure endurance, strength, cardiovascular capacity and functional level. Patients with a tracheostomy who were mechanically ventilated were recruited from a medical-surgical ICU and respiratory weaning unit at a tertiary referral hospital in Melbourne, Victoria, between 2003 and 2005. Patients underwent a pi..