Exploring the use of physical rehabilitation for sepsis survivors: a scoping review

To explore the use, parameters, safety and outcomes of physical rehabilitation for adults with sepsis.

We conducted a scoping review following the Joanna Briggs Institute framework.

Studies were eligible for inclusion in the study if they included: (1) adults 18 and older, (2) with a previous diagnosis of sepsis, (3) using a physical rehabilitation intervention at any point of sepsis management, (4) published in English or French.

We searched seven databases and screened titles and abstracts, reviewed full texts and performed data extraction independently and in duplicate. We summarised findings narratively using the "population, context, concept" framework and used descriptive statistics where appropriate. End-users reviewed and commented on study findings.

We included 58 studies, representing 77 434 participants, with the majority (79%) being published in the last decade. A large proportion (36%) of physical rehabilitation interventions included exercise and were overseen by a physical therapist (41%). The parameters of the interventions varied widely. However, all interventions (100%) were hospital based and the interventions implemented appeared safe. Of the 28 studies evaluating effectiveness of the intervention, function improved in most studies (78%) following physical rehabilitation.

Research addressing physical rehabilitation for patients with sepsis is increasing. Physical rehabilitation appears safe and may improve functional outcomes in those with sepsis. Future research should report details of intervention parameters and evaluate rehabilitation post-hospital discharge to maximise impact on function and quality of life for sepsis survivors.

The protocol was registered on Open Science Framework Registries (Registration DOI: https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/2EPJ6).