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Disability in persons hospitalized with AIDS.
M W O'Dell1, A Crawford, E S Bohi
1Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Graduate Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
|April 1, 1991
Summary
Many individuals with Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) experience significant physical disability upon hospital discharge. This requires human assistance in daily activities, highlighting the need for rehabilitation support.
Area of Science:
- Medical Rehabilitation
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Persons with Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) often face significant physical challenges.
- Understanding the extent of disability at discharge is crucial for effective patient management and care planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document the types and degree of physical disability in individuals with AIDS at the time of discharge from acute hospitalization.
- To identify factors associated with increased disability.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) for 37 discharge evaluations.
- Assessed functional status across 18 FIM areas to determine the need for human assistance.
Main Results:
- 60% of patients required assistance in at least one FIM area.
- 51% needed help with stair climbing and 38% with ambulation.
- Disability correlated with longer AIDS diagnosis duration and hospital stay.
Conclusions:
- Significant physical disability is prevalent in persons with AIDS at hospital discharge.
- Rehabilitation professionals can play a vital role in managing physical disability in this population.