Consenso de expertos para determinar las competencias mínimas para la práctica clínica del fisioterapeuta en la unidad de cuidados intensivos en México

Abstract

Background and objective

The physical therapist is a member of the multidisciplinary team providing care to critically ill patients. The competencies of physical therapists working in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) can vary depending on the geographical region. Currently, Mexico lacks a standardized framework for defining the competencies of physical therapists working in the ICU. The objective of this study is to establish minimum standards for clinical practice among physical therapists in the ICU in Mexico.

Material and methods

An expert consensus was achieved using a Delphi technique, involving three rounds of electronic questionnaire-based inquiries.

Results

A total of 41 experts participated in the first two rounds, and 38 in the third round. A comprehensive evaluation of 258 items led to the identification of 207 essential items and 51 non-essential items for the clinical practice of physical therapists in the ICU.

Conclusion

Standardizing the competencies of physical therapists in the ICU will promote safer and more effective care for critically ill patients.