A Case Report Exploring Activity Intensity in Inpatient Rehabilitation after Stroke

Abstract

Background and Purpose. Inpatient rehabilitation in countries other than the United States (US) has been described as a time where patients are often not engaged in intensive physical activity. The purpose of this case report is to explore the amount and intensity of physical activity provided in inpatient rehabilitation after stroke in the US. Methods. This study presents a case report of a person admitted to an inpatient rehabilitation unit after sustaining a first stroke. A customized data collection tracked type of activity, activity intensity and social interaction every 5 minutes during the rehabilitation day. Results. 74 percent of the day was spent in low intensity, often seated, physical activity; 14% of the day was spent resting or sleeping. Only 2.91% the day was spent in moderate or high intensity activity with a mobility focus. Conclusions. Consistent with other studies, this case report suggests a relatively low physical demand to rehabilitation delivered in inpatient stroke rehabilitation. This case begins to raise questions about optimized rehabilitation parameters for acute stroke rehabilitation.

Improving practice with integration of patient directed activity during inpatient rehabilitation

“…2 However, functional activity levels are low for individuals after stroke during inpatient rehabilitation. 3 Patients have been reported to spend 76% of their day in their bedroom and 62% being inactive. 4 Thus, feasible approaches considering cost-effectiveness and resource allocation are needed to provide higher doses of therapy during inpatient rehabilitation.…”