Figure 1

Trial profile. ^a Being discharged (n = 241), no physiotherapist available (n = 73), not under care of Respiratory Consultant (n = 55), lives out of area (n = 51), already seen by a physiotherapist (41). ^b No physiotherapist available (1) patient refused treatment (4). ^c Clinical working definition of respiratory failure. ALL the following criteria were required to switch arm: i) clinical evidence of sputum retention (e.g. auscultation, chest x ray). ii) arterial blood gases: pH less than 7.26. iii) arterial blood gases: rising CO_2. iv) already receiving controlled oxygen therapy. v) already receiving other supportive treatment(s).