Supporting the Progression of Ventilatory Care in Neuromuscular Disease - Practical Strategies for Physiotherapists
This expert-led half-day course explores the evolving respiratory management of individuals with neuromuscular disease,following the patient journey from the recognition of respiratory muscle weakness through to long-term ventilatory support.
Designed for physiotherapists working across acute, community and specialist services, the programme will provide a practical overview of respiratory failure, patient assessment and the role of non-invasive ventilation (NIV) in improving symptoms, quality of life and survival.
The course will examine key stages in the progression of ventilatory support, including NIV initiation and optimisation, troubleshooting common challenges, and the introduction of daytime mouthpiece ventilation.
Participants will also explore considerations for patients whose respiratory needs progress beyond NIV, including the role of tracheostomy ventilation within long-term care pathways.
Delivered by experienced clinicians, the session will combine evidence-based practice with real-world clinical insights, helping participants develop confidence in supporting patients with complex respiratory needs across the life course.
Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of ventilatory management strategies, multidisciplinary working and practical approaches to optimising care for people living with neuromuscular disease.
Programme:
13:00-13:05 (5 mins) - Welcome
13:05-13:50 (45 mins) - An introduction to different NMD's, respiratory failure and starting non-invasive ventilation.
13:50-14:20 (30 mins)- Session troubleshooting, practicalities and challenges of NIV.
14:20-14:35 (15 mins) - Comfort break
14:35-15:15 (40 mins) - Session on mouthpiece ventilation -
15:15-15:45 (30 mins) - A brief nod to the long-term tracheostomy ventilated patient - who, when, what does life look like.
15:45-16:00 (15 mins) - Q+A and close
