Experiences of Embedded Cardiovascular Surgery Intensive Care Unit Rehabilitation Team: A Pilot Qualitative Study

Background Rehabilitation in the cardiovascular surgery intensive care unit (CVICU) is becoming a more recognized essential need with a complex patient population. Little research has been conducted on occupational and physical therapy staffing models in the CVICU, how they are experienced by staff, or the possible benefits and challenges of different approaches. Methods This pilot qualitative study explored the lived experiences of occupational and physical therapists working in an embedded CVICU rehabilitation team in a large level academic and teaching hospital. Two occupational therapists and three physical therapists with experience in this staffing model participated in semi-structured interviews, exploring the benefits and challenges, especially compared to the more traditional staffing model in their facility. Results Participants described a supportive team integrated directly into the CVICU culture, with specialized training and increased staffing consistency compared to the traditional rotating staffing model. Findings coalesced around benefits of the embedded team as well as challenges regarding implementation of embedded occupational and physical therapy services in the CVICU. Discussion Embedded occupational and physical therapy rehabilitation in the CVICU is perceived positively by the rehabilitation practitioners who have experienced it. Furthermore, participants reported embedded rehabilitation may help break down barriers to early activity and mobility by improving the timing of therapy consults, helping to create practice experts and improving relationships with the other members of the ICU team. Therapy professionals and future researchers can use this study to spark further exploration into alternative staffing methods and design quantitative research related to outcomes.