Effects of pulmonary rehabilitation in patients with acute post-COVID-19 syndrome

Objective: to verify the effects of a pulmonary rehabilitation program on dyspnea, functional capacity, and degree of functional independence in patients with acute post-COVID-19 syndrome. Method: This is a quasi-experimental study carried out from August 2020 to October 2022 in a hospital in Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil. A total of 49 participants were assessed before and after rehabilitation using the dyspnea scale, the six-minute walk test, and the Barthel Index. The moments were compared using non-parametric tests (Wilcoxon and Sign). Results: There were significant improvements in dyspnea, functional capacity, and independence, as shown by the instruments used (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The study highlighted the benefits of personalized pulmonary rehabilitation in patients with post-COVID-19 syndrome, underscoring the importance of integrating these programs into the continuum of care to reduce the burden on health systems. More research is needed to optimize the management of this condition and ensure adequate care for patients.