COVID-19 AND HOSPITALIZATION DURATION: UNCOVERING THE DRIVERS OF EXTENDED CARE

Abstract

In February 2020, the World Health Organization designated coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) as a global pandemic, caused by the highly contagious severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). This disease presents with a spectrum of symptoms, ranging from mild flu-like manifestations to severe respiratory tract infections. The severity often necessitates ventilatory support, particularly in older individuals with underlying health conditions. Physiotherapists play a crucial role in the multi-professional care team, helping patients recover lung and motor function, which may be impaired due to the inflammatory response from viral infection. Prolonged hospital stays, especially in patients with severe COVID-19, have an impact on patient turnover and hospital resources. This study examines the effect of clinical characteristics and physiotherapeutic interventions on the length of hospitalization for discharged COVID-19 patients.