Immediate Effects of Early Chest Physiotherapy on Hemodynamic and Ventilatory Parameters in Mechanically Ventilated Adult Patients: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Abstract

Background: Mechanical ventilation is a life-saving intervention in intensive care units (ICUs); however, prolonged ventilation increases the risk of ventilator-associated complications. Early chest physiotherapy (CPT) has been suggested to improve lung compliance, secretion clearance, and hemodynamic stability in patients on mechanical ventilation. However, few studies have evaluated their immediate effects. Objective: The objective is to determine the immediate effects of early CPT on hemodynamic and ventilatory parameters in mechanically ventilated adult patients. Methods: A quasi-experimental pre–post study was conducted on 50 mechanically ventilated adults admitted to the ICU. Participants received early CPT, including manual percussion, vibration, manual hyperinflation, and endotracheal suctioning, for 3 consecutive days. Hemodynamic (heart rate, respiratory rate, mean arterial pressure, SpO2) and ventilatory (compliance, resistance, and peak inspiratory pressure [PIP]) parameters were recorded pre- and post-intervention each day. Statistical analysis was performed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences v20 with repeated measures analysis of variance. Results: Early CPT significantly improved ventilatory parameters, including compliance (P < 0.05), reduced resistance (P < 0.05), and PIP (P < 0.05). SpO2 showed a significant increase post-CPT, whereas the respiratory rate significantly decreased. No adverse events were reported. Conclusion: Early CPT leads to immediate improvements in lung dynamics and hemodynamic stability in mechanically ventilated adults, without causing adverse effects. These findings highlight the importance of early physiotherapy interventions in ICUs.