Review Article
The Role of Occupational Therapists in the Treatment of COVID-19 Patients: A Systematic Review
Nirvi Sharma*
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 3, September 2024
Pages:
27-33
Received:
6 June 2024
Accepted:
5 September 2024
Published:
26 September 2024
Abstract: Context: Many COVID-19 patients have long-term physical, functional, and psychological deficits, posing hitherto unheard-of challenges to healthcare systems around the world. Occupational therapists (OTs) are essential to multimodal care and rehabilitation; yet, little is known about how specifically they might help treat COVID-19 patients. Goal: The purpose of this systematic review is to assess the function of occupational therapists (OTs) in the care and recovery of COVID-19 patients, as well as to pinpoint the precise therapies and methods that OTs use to enhance functional results and quality of life. Techniques: A comprehensive exploration was carried out on PubMed to locate pertinent research articles released until December 2022. Included were studies that looked into OTs' role in COVID-19 patient care. After data extraction, standardized instruments were used to evaluate the studies' quality. Findings: The review contained four studies, which included reviews, observational studies, interventional studies, and case reports. In COVID-19 patients, OT-led interventions in respiratory care, functional rehabilitation, and psychosocial support showed encouraging benefits in terms of boosting mental health, increasing respiratory function, and improving functional outcomes. Conclusion: A vital and varied role is played by occupational therapists in the care and recovery of COVID-19 patients. The identified OT-led therapies have demonstrated effectiveness in boosting mental health, augmenting functional outcomes, and increasing respiratory function. To assess the long-term impacts and develop standardized protocols for occupational therapy interventions in the treatment of COVID-19 patients, more study is required.
Abstract: Context: Many COVID-19 patients have long-term physical, functional, and psychological deficits, posing hitherto unheard-of challenges to healthcare systems around the world. Occupational therapists (OTs) are essential to multimodal care and rehabilitation; yet, little is known about how specifically they might help treat COVID-19 patients. Goal: T...
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