Authors (including presenting author) :
Cheung WT(1),Ho WH (1),Law HW (1),Chen CW(1),Kwok CY(1),Chiu HN(1),Mak YY(1), Lo TM(1),Lau FO(1).
Affiliation :
(1)Physiotherapy Department, Tai Po Hospital
Introduction :
Under the COVID 19 pandemic, group exercise training in psychiatric wards is prohibited due to stringent infection control measures. Inactivity after admitted in gazetted ward might lead to physical deconditioning and hazardous to patients' physical and psychological wellbeing. Modification of physiotherapy service delivery model from gymnasium setting or group-based training to and individualized ward based training with variety is essential for facilitating buildup of an active life style of patients in psychiatric ward.
Objectives :
To upkeep the effectiveness and efficiency of the physiotherapy provision in psychiatric gazetted wards.
Methodology :
Various types of workout training which includes yoga, stretching, general mobilizing, aerobic training etc in the form of self video guided training at 2 level of difficulties were designed for therapists' selection as tailor made treatment. Sets of small handy equipment such as massage gun, massage ball, foam roller, fitness ring, elastic band, exercise gripper, etc were also available for designated use as self-help exercise upon prescription.
Result & Outcome :
Patient and staff survey were conducted in form of questionnaire to collect their opinions on the effectiveness and efficiency on the change. 31 psychiatric patients (16 male and 15 female) with age ranged from 16-64 have completed the survey. Over 90% of them agreed or strongly agreed the existing model can help them to increase their activity level in ward, improve their mood and build up exercise habit in future. They also agreed that exercises are designed at appropriate level which focus on their individual need. Over 80% of the patients agreed the varieties of exercise is enough and over 75% of them agreed the delivery model can help them to reduce the time spend on sleeping at day time. Other comments included a larger space for exercise, going to gymnasium instead of staying in ward, a longer exercise duration which extend beyond 30 minutes. All therapists involved in the program have taken the survey, all of them agreed the change in exercise delivery model helps to motivate
