Methods: In a prospective randomised controlled trial (RCT) 53 consecutive critical-illness-survivors were enrolled at nine ICUs. Early rehabilitation program (protocol) consisted of exercise therapy, active breathing techniques and electrical stimulation after discharge from the ICU to ward-based care. The usual care group received physical therapy as ordered by the primary care team after discharge from the ICU. LOS at the general ward after transfer from the ICU was recorded. Furthermore, Early-Rehabilitation-Barthel-Index (ERBI), Visual-Analogue-Scale for pain (VAS), 3-Minute-walk-test (3min), Beck-Depression-Inventory (BDI), State-Trait-Anxiety-Inventory (STAI), and Medical-Research-Council-scale (MRCS) were assessed.