Activities and Time Spent on Rehabilitation in Scandinavian ICUs: A Cross-Sectional Survey Among Healthcare Professionals

Introduction: Survivors of critical illness commonly experience physical, cognitive, and psychological impairments. Early rehabilitation may mitigate these impairments; however, how rehabilitation practices are perceived and implemented by healthcare professionals in intensive care unit (ICU) remains insufficiently described. This study aimed to describe healthcare professionals' perceptions of rehabilitation activities in the ICU and to explore their self-reported estimates of the time devoted to these activities in Scandinavian ICUs. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among healthcare professionals working in ICUs in Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. Using convenience sampling, data were collected on rehabilitation activities, time allocation, timing of initiation, and availability of post-ICU rehabilitative services. Results: In total, 518 healthcare professionals participated. Rehabilitation was described as a multidimensional practice encompassing cognitive, sensory stimulation, physical, and social rehabilitation activities, as well as patient participation in personal care. Activities were typically performed daily throughout the ICU stay. Respondents reported spending a median of 40% of their working time on rehabilitation, and most patients were considered eligible. Commonly reported activities included verbal interaction, sitting on the edge of the bed, family visits, and participation in personal care. Conclusion: Rehabilitation is an established component of ICU care in Scandinavia and is integrated into routine clinical practice. Activities span multiple domains, with physical and social rehabilitation activities being most prominent. Further research is needed to clarify optimal timing and prioritisation of rehabilitation activities. Editorial Comment: This survey study presents perceptions from ICU personnel of how rehabilitation activities tend to be implemented in their workplace. Through different means, rehabilitation efforts are described as established in ICU practice in the three Scandinavian countries which were sampled.