Clinical and Functional Characteristics of Patients Admitted for Severe COVID-19 Pneumonia

This research protocol aims to evaluate the impact of severe COVID-19 pneumonia requiring invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) on health-related quality of life (HRQoL), functional capacity, muscle strength, and nutritional status one year after discharge from the ICU. The study is analytical, longitudinal, and prospective, involving patients over 18 years who received IMV for more than 72 hours and were discharged alive. Primary outcomes include changes in HRQoL (assessed using EQ-5D-3L and VAS), functional capacity (Katz Index and Timed Up and Go test), muscle strength (MRC scale), and nutritional status (BMI and limb circumferences). Secondary outcomes include time to return to work and one-year mortality. Data collection occurs at discharge and at one, six, and twelve months post-discharge. Statistical analyses involve descriptive statistics and longitudinal comparisons using Friedman and Dunn-Bonferroni tests. Ethical approval has been secured, and patient anonymity will be ensured. The protocol emphasizes multidisciplinary follow-up to identify and address physical and psychological sequelae effectively.