Characteristics and outcomes of COVID-19-Positive Individuals Admitted for Inpatient Rehabilitation in Toronto, Canada

Abstract

Objective To describe the sociodemographic features, impairments, and functional changes of COVID-19-positive individuals who underwent inpatient rehabilitation at three rehabilitation hospitals in Toronto, Canada. Design Retrospective chart review of patients admitted to three COVID-19 rehabilitation units between 20 April 2020 and 3 June 2020. Sociodemographic factors, impairments, length of stay, and Functional Independence Measure data were reported. Results A total of 41 patients were included in this study, including 22 males and 19 females. The median age was 75 years. Thirty-six percent of patients were admitted to the intensive care unit during their acute stay. The most commonly affected body functions were: neuromusculoskeletal (73.2%); combined cardiovascular, haematological, immunological, and respiratory (65.9%); and mental functions (29.3%). Median total Functional Independence Measure score was 85 at admission and 108.5 at discharge. Conclusion This study represents some of the first data on the characteristics and outcomes of COVID-19-positive individuals admitted to inpatient rehabilitation in Toronto, Canada early in the COVID-19 pandemic. LAY ABSTRACT Individuals hospitalized with COVID-19 may experience a decline in mobility and independence with self-care, requiring inpatient rehabilitation prior to discharge home. In Toronto, Canada, 3 inpatient rehabilitation hospitals developed units to provide treatment to COVID-19-positive individuals. The clinical and sociodemographic features of patients admitted for rehabilitation between 20 April 2020 and 3 June 2020 were studied. Forty-one patients (22 males, 19 females), median age 75 years, were included. Thirty-six percent of patients were admitted to the intensive care unit during their acute care stay. The most commonly affected body functions were: nerves, muscles, and bones (73.2%); combined cardiovascular, blood, immune, and lungs (65.9%); and mental functions (29.3%). Median Functional Independence Measure score was 85 at admission and 108.5 at discharge. This study represents some of the first data on characteristics and outcomes of COVID-19-positive individuals admitted to inpatient rehabilitation in Toronto, Canada early in the COVID-19 pandemic.