Insights from an interprofessional POST-COVID-19 rehabilitation unit: A speech and language therapy and respiratory medicine perspective.

Stierli, Sarah; Buss, Irene; Redecker, Hermann; Baumberger, Michael; Blättler, Erika; Selb, Melissa; Hinter, Sandra; Ischer, Barbara; Schwegler, Hans

OBJECTIVE We present a case report that complements the conclusion of Stam et al. in their call to rehabilitation facilities to anticipate and prepare to address post intensive care syndrome (PICS) in post-Covid-19 patients. METHODS The case report presented here provides insight into treating mechanically ventilated post-Covid-19 patients. RESULTS Early intervention for dysphagia, using speech and language therapy and ventilator-compatible speaking valves, provided within an interprofessional collaborative team, can mitigate the potential negative consequences of prolonged intubation, long-term use of cuffed tracheostomy, and PICS resulting from Covid-19. CONCLUSION Such a treatment approach can be used to address what is important to patients: to be able to speak with family and friends, eat what they want, and breathe spontaneously.