Although there are studies examining the effect of actively performed PNF exercises on haemodynamic responses in intensive care patients and healthy individuals, there are no studies investigating their effect on circulation and haemodynamic responses in unconscious patients. Therefore, this study was designed to investigate the acute effects of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) exercises on peripheral circulation and haemodynamic responses in patients admitted to a neurological intensive care unit.
Hypotheses:
H1-1: Passively administered PNF exercises have beneficial effects on peripheral circulation.
H2-1: Passively administered PNF exercises have beneficial effects on haemodynamic responses.
Patients being monitored in the neurology intensive care unit
Aged 18 years or over
Haemodynamically stable
No orthopaedic condition preventing the performance of passive joint movements in the upper and lower limbs
Presence of haemodynamic instability
Fractures, contractures or serious orthopaedic conditions in the upper or lower limbs that restrict movement
Diagnosis or suspicion of deep vein thrombosis
Severe peripheral arterial disease