The role of physiotherapy in a neonatal intensive care unit.

The role of physiotherapy in the neonatal intensive care unit has historically been mainly associated with the care of the neonate's lungs. Postural drainage coupled with percussion, vibrations and suction are all used in the physiotherapy management of neonatal respiratory disorders. At Monash Medical Centre all elective extubations are performed by the physiotherapist in accordance with the neonatal unit's protocol: this includes four hourly respiratory physiotherapy for the first 24 hours after extubation to ensure that post-extubation atelectasis does not occur. In addition to respiratory care, the physiotherapist is also engaged in the assessment and management of neonates with either neurological or musculoskeletal disorders.