Patient views regarding the impact of hydrotherapy on critically ill ventilated patients: A qualitative exploration study.

•Patients were remarkably positive about exercising in water and thought it to be of great value in the physical and mental recovery from critical illness.•The strict protocol, presence of skilled staff and high-tech swimming environment provide confidence and safe feeling.•Hydrotherapy is mostly experienced to be of great value in the physical and mental recovery from critical illness.•Results from this study are an encouragement to continue providing hydrotherapy to critically ill ventilated patients.