Pulmonary Rehabilitation Post-COVID-19: a Pilot Study

This pilot study used a two-arm randomized pre- and post-trial design to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and satisfaction of a remote interdisciplinary PR program, delivered using two exercise approaches (video conference and self-directed), on the recovery of long-term post-COVD-19 outcomes (≥ 3 months after infection). Group one (video conference): participants were asked to follow the exercise program with a small group of peers (2 groups/6 participants each) in a Zoom meeting 3 times a week/45 min each (including 5 min before and 10 min after the meeting for free talk-chat between the participants; e.g. questions and perceptions). The therapist organized and led the Zoom meetings to resolve general questions (e.g. equipment, platforms, etc.). Group two: participants were asked to follow the exercise program 3 times a week/30 min each while watching a pre-recorded video created by the research team and uploaded on YouTube. Patients were asked to wear the finger pulse oximeter at all times while exercising, so that they could control their pace while avoiding exceeding target values (HR and SpO2). They were also asked to record their HR and SpO2 values before and after participation in every session of the exercise program in a diary. All participants from both groups could contact the therapist at any time during the study if they had questions or concerns. They also received a follow-up phone call once a week from the therapist.