Physiotherapy

Physiotherapists are an integral part of the multi-disciplinary team at the John Hunter Hospital (JHH) Intensive Care Unit (ICU).  The team has a passion for providing best care for patients, with leadership and participation in quality improvement projects.

A team of specialised physiotherapists work within the Adult and Paediatric Intensive Care Units (PICU) to provide comprehensive assessment of the respiratory, cardiovascular, neurological and musculoskeletal systems, and formulate treatment plans for these critically unwell patients. Treatments are focused on preventing or resolving respiratory complications and providing early rehabilitation for patients to prevent the effect of deconditioning.

The experience Physiotherapy team provides expert care across all sub-specialties in the ICU including Trauma, Neurosurgery, Severe Respiratory Failure, Cardiac Failure, ECMO, Paediatrics, General Medicine and General Surgery.

Hours

The JHH ICU Physiotherapy Service provides a seven-day service 8am to 4.30pm, with extended hours service until 8.30pm three days per week (Tuesday to Thursday).

Research

The Physiotherapy department is also involved in recruiting patients for the international, multi-centre research trial looking at improving outcomes for ICU patients by providing exercise to patients whilst still on invasive mechanical ventilation (TEAM Trial).