KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 14 (Bernama) -- Twelve physiotherapists from across the country have received certificates after completing a four-month Advanced Cardiovascular and Respiratory Physiotherapy Professional Programme at the Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
The certificates were presented by the faculty’s Deputy Dean (Postgraduate Studies), Professor Datin Dr Norlinah Mohamed Ibrahim, representing the Dean, Professor Datuk Dr Marina Mat Baki.
In a speech delivered by Dr Norlinah, Dr Marina said the programme was a strategic initiative to enhance physiotherapists’ clinical capabilities in managing patients with complex health conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, stroke and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
She said the advanced training was crucial in strengthening physiotherapists’ skills and competencies in providing comprehensive patient rehabilitation.
“While most physiotherapists possess fundamental skills, this advanced training enhances their clinical competence in managing complex cases.
“The modules cover early patient mobilisation in intensive care units (ICUs), pre- and post-operative rehabilitation for high-risk surgeries, and community-based rehabilitation,” she said.
Meanwhile, programme chief coordinator Associate Professor Datuk Dr Nur Ayub Md Ali said the training covered systematic clinical assessments, the use of cardiorespiratory instruments, and the interpretation of medical imaging, including X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound.
Dr Nur Ayub, who is also a senior consultant cardiothoracic surgeon and medical lecturer at the Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, UKM, said participants were also trained in managing critically ill patients, using non-invasive respiratory support devices and administering oxygen therapy.
The programme also covered rehabilitation before and after cardiothoracic, abdominal and bariatric surgeries.
-- BERNAMA