Potential of early occupational therapy following cardiovascular surgery for a neonate with Epstein’s disease: A case report on the role of occupational therapists in the PICU

Abstract

Multimodal supportive intervention is essential to ameliorate perioperative complications for patients with severe heart disease. However, little is known on the clinical efficacy of occupational therapy for neonates with severe congenital heart disease. In recent years, post-intensive care syndrome may lead to decreased quality of life （QOL） after leaving the pediatric intensive care unit. Herein, we report our clinical experience of early occupational therapy following extensive cardiovascular surgery for a neonate with Epstein’s disease. Occupational therapy intervention from the acute phase of the disease contributed to patients’ early discharge and improvement of QOL. This study highlights the importance of the early introduction of a rehabilitation program to promote patient recovery, thereby improving the quality of life of neonates with cardiopulmonary failure.