Event Details

HANDS-ON DEMONSTRATION SESSION ON TESTING IN PULMONARY REHABILITATION

PROGRAMME REPORT

A Hands-on Demonstration Session on Testing in Pulmonary Rehabilitation was successfully organized by the Sikkim Manipal College of Physiotherapy (SMCPT) on 18^th March 2026 as part of the observance of Pulmonary Rehabilitation Week 2026. The programme was conducted under the theme, "Inhale Confidence, Exhale Limits," with the objective of enhancing participants' practical understanding and clinical competency in standardized exercise testing protocols used in pulmonary rehabilitation.

The session featured five dedicated demonstration stations, each focusing on a key functional assessment tool commonly employed in pulmonary rehabilitation settings. The stations provided participants with opportunities to observe, understand, and engage with the testing procedures in a structured learning environment.

The demonstration stations included:

• Glittre Activities of Daily Living (ADL) Test
• Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT)
• Incremental Shuttle Walk Test (ISWT)
• Queen's College Step Test
• Unsupported Upper Limb Exercise Test (UULEX)

Each station incorporated live demonstrations, detailed procedural explanations, discussions on indications and contraindications, and guidance on the interpretation of outcomes. The experiential format enabled participants to strengthen their clinical application skills while gaining confidence in the practical implementation of these standardized assessment tools.

The session was conducted by:

• Dr. Prabin Pradhan, PT
• Dr. Binita Pradhan, PT
• Dr. Tasneem R. Hazarika, PT

The faculty members were actively supported by postgraduate students specializing in Cardiopulmonary Physiotherapy, who assisted in conducting demonstrations and facilitating participant interaction. Their involvement contributed significantly to the effectiveness and smooth execution of the programme.

A total of 105 participants attended the session, reflecting strong engagement and academic interest in pulmonary rehabilitation practices. The interactive format of the programme facilitated effective translation of theoretical concepts into practical competencies, thereby enriching the learning experience of the attendees.

The event was organized under the guidance of Prof. Nikita Joshi Sonowal, Principal, SMCPT, whose support and leadership played a pivotal role in the successful conduct of the programme.

Key Highlights of the Session:

• Comprehensive and experiential understanding of key assessment tools used in pulmonary rehabilitation.
• Structured demonstrations of five standardized pulmonary rehabilitation tests.
• Emphasis on clinical applicability, safety considerations, and interpretation of test outcomes.
• Active involvement of postgraduate and undergraduate students in hands-on facilitation.
• High participant turnout (n = 105), indicating strong academic interest.
• Interactive learning environment promoting practical skill acquisition.
• Alignment with the theme by empowering participants with practical competence and confidence.

Additionally, as part of the celebrations marking Pulmonary Rehabilitation Week 2026, an inter-batch painting competition was organized in collaboration with the Literary Club, SMCPT. This initiative aimed to foster creativity and encourage participants to express their perspectives on respiratory health and rehabilitation through artistic mediums.

The activity provided a platform for students to engage beyond clinical and academic domains, promoting holistic involvement while reinforcing the theme, "Inhale Confidence, Exhale Limits," in a creative and reflective manner. The competition highlighted the importance of integrating art, empathy, and healthcare awareness in promoting a comprehensive understanding of pulmonary rehabilitation.

The programme concluded successfully, achieving its objective of enhancing practical competence in pulmonary rehabilitation testing while simultaneously promoting interdisciplinary learning, creativity, and student engagement. The event served as a valuable educational experience for all participants and reaffirmed SMCPT's commitment to excellence in physiotherapy education and clinical training.