Written by: Rachel Smith, DPT
Helping patients participate in early mobility strategies is a crucial component of overall recovery and progress. The benefits of early mobility are well-documented in the literature. Just to name a few…
- Promotes maintenance of functional endurance
- Decreases incidence of delirium
- Improves patient and family involvement in functional goals
- Helps combat ICU-related weakness
However, implementing early mobility strategies is far from simple. Real-world scenarios can derail even the best-laid plans.
Among the critical care population, we face many clinical barriers including medical instability, high levels of agitation, the need for sedation, medical contraindications/red flags, awaiting surgery, etc. But there are more…
–Let’s talk fear. It’s a very real factor. Individuals in the critical care setting are vulnerable, which can lead to fear and uncertainty of what to expect. Be mindful that, to the patient, you are a new person in an unfamiliar environment. I find it to be of utmost importance to take the time to see and treat the whole person and build a relationship of trust.
–What about staff confidence and comfort? Many people providing patient care worry about causing harm to our patients. But research has shown that the risk of an adverse event is low, and that the benefits of early mobility outweigh the potential risks when guided by skilled healthcare professionals.
–Those obstacles at the system level? Factors like staffing or equipment shortages, a lack of clear mobility guidelines or safety protocols, inconsistent PT/OT orders can make the job of a rehab professional feel like a tough ask.
Yes, there are many reasons that caring for patients in the critical care setting can seem intimidating. But at the center of it all, the most important piece in this puzzle is the patient. We are fortunate, as rehab professionals, to serve individuals in this population and be with them throughout their functional recovery. And we have the training and tools to do so with skill, safety, and compassion.
In the upcoming webinar, Early Mobility Strategies to Prevent Post-Intensive Care Syndrome, we will discuss the current CPGs, explore example safety protocols, and review current literature. But more importantly, we’ll have time to reflect upon and discuss how we fit successfully in the puzzle, too!
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