Pulmonary Rehab After COVID

Brenda Gatliff knows just how dire her condition was when she was stricken with COVID-19 in December 2021. The Beech Grove, Indiana, grandmother spent 15 days in the hospital fighting for her life.

“I was diagnosed with pneumonia and COVID, which turned into acute respiratory failure,” she said. “I could breathe in, but not out, and was totally zapped of strength. Every day, I was at risk for being put on a ventilator. Seven other people died from COVID in the hospital during the time I was there.”

Brenda’s Pulmonary Rehabilitation Journey

When Brenda was allowed to return home, still barely able to walk and breathing with assistance from an oxygen tank, she entered Franciscan’s Outpatient Pulmonary Rehabilitation program.

Twice weekly for the next six months, she slowly built back her strength and endurance while being closely monitored by a team of experienced clinicians. With each visit, Brenda’s therapist would test her heart, oxygen levels and stamina, incorporating a specially designed rehabilitation program.

“Pulmonary rehabilitation is an important treatment for patients whose ability to breathe independently has been compromised,” said Mazen Alakhras, MD, a pulmonologist at Franciscan Physician Network Pulmonary & Critical Care Lafayette. “The therapy exercises the respiratory muscles to gradually increase the patient’s ability to do more and resume normal activity. It’s not for everyone due to the time commitment, but those who are able to complete the program benefit greatly.”

A Phased Approach To Pulmonary Rehabilitation

The pulmonary rehabilitation program at Franciscan Health follows a phased approach.

Phase 1 is for hospitalized patients. In Phase 2, individualized outpatient treatment, usually twice weekly, includes light exercise (walking on a treadmill, some cycling and weight training), treatment and counseling, and patients learn how to manage their respiratory issues.

Eventually, in Phases 3 and 4, the patient transitions from monitored exercise to safe self-care, including learning to monitor their heart rate and breathing and accurately report it to their care team.

A Steady Return To Normal Life After Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Brenda’s recovery from COVID was long and slow. Even now, she occasionally gets winded, but can look forward confidently to future holidays with her family.

“From the time when I was in the hospital through my rehabilitation, I was amazed at the level of care I received,” Brenda said. “In rehab, you always knew you were being followed very closely. I never felt in danger. I’m so grateful to have received care from such a great team. I know I wouldn’t be as far along as I am without that experience.”