Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 23, 2026

Using Continuous Data Tracking Technology to Study Exercise Adherence in Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Published on: November 8, 2013
[Implementation of an early geriatric rehabilitation in acute inpatient pneumology]
W Ammenwerth1, M Nosul, M Berliner
1Klinik für Pneumologie, Lungenklinik Heckeshorn, HELIOS Klinikum Emil von Behring, Walterhöferstraße 11, Berlin. wim.ammenwerth@helioskliniken.de
Background:
In order to counter the rapidly developing loss of function especially in elderly patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AE-COPD) the concept "early geriatric rehabilitation in acute inpatient pneumology" was developed. An essential aspect of the project was a targeted approach making use of multi-professional expertise and standards.
Methods:
This 1-year feasibility study included a total of 58 patients with AE-COPD in advanced age (mean: 74.8 ± 6.8 years) with typical geriatric multimorbidity and necessity for acute medical as well as rehabilitation treatment. The results of the early geriatric rehabilitation by a multi-professional rehabilitation team were analyzed in a prospective study approach using standardized assessments.
Results:
The early geriatric rehabilitation started on median day 3 (range: 1st - 22nd) and lasted in median 16 days (range: 9 - 29). It achieved a significant improvement, particularly in mobility [timed up-and-go, median 19 (range: 10 - 150) vs. 15 (range: 7 - 120) seconds, p < 0.0001], self-help ability [Barthel index, median 73 (range: 5 - 95) vs. 95 (range: 45 - 100) points, p < 0.0001] and social care.
Conclusions:
Early geriatric rehabilitation in a cohort of AE-COPD patients is feasible and can be integrated in an acute inpatient pulmonary care system.
Related Concept Videos
Pneumonia IV: Management
Bacterial Pneumonia Treatment
For bacterial pneumonia, antibiotics serve as the cornerstone of therapy. Initial treatment often begins with empirical antibiotics, tailored to the anticipated causative organism and adjusted based on culture results. Key antibiotic choices include:
Pneumonia V: Nursing management and Prevention
The nurse must practice strict medical asepsis and adhere to infection control guidelines to minimize healthcare-associated infections.
Enhance airway patency
Position the patient correctly to facilitate drainage of the affected lung segments. Manual or mechanical percussion and vibration can also be employed.
Pneumonia III: Complications and Assessment
Acute Respiratory Failure-V
Ensure that patients are monitored continuously for their response to therapy, including changes in...
Pneumonia I: Introduction
Risk Factors
Various factors influence the likelihood of developing pneumonia. Age plays a crucial role, with infants, children under two, and individuals over 65 at increased risk due to their...
Pneumonia I: Introduction