Implementing a mobility program for ICU patients
Author: Darla Topley, DNP, RN, APRN, CCNS
American Nurse Today
More than 5 million patients are admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) every year, with survival rates approaching 80%. But when they leave the ICU, many patients experience muscle weakness from bed rest and immobility. Some also suffer immobility complications, such as pneumonia and deep vein thrombosis. Early mobility is essential to preventing complications and enhancing quality of life after discharge.
Unfortunately, evidence-based protocols for early mobility are still being developed and aren’t easy to find. In 2013, a literature review was followed by a meeting of ICU experts to seek a consensus on safe mobilization of mechanically ventilated ICU patients. It marked the first time a consensus was reached on safety parameters for mobilizing ICU patients. The authors summarized four safety categories to consider when determining if a patient should be mobilized—respiratory, cardiovascular, neurologic, and other (presence of central and arterial lines and surgical or medical conditions). They determined that endotracheal intubation isn’t a valid reason for keeping a patient on bed rest; also, early mobilization (getting in and out of bed) is safe for patients with a fraction of inspired oxygen below 0.6, oxygen saturation above 90%, and respiratory rate less than 30 breaths/minute. However, consensus wasn’t reached on safe mobilization of patients receiving vasoactive agents. Read full article HERE.
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