Early Mobility in Acute Care

Over the last 10 years, there has been heightened awareness and focus to provide early mobility for patients in critical care and non-critical areas in acute care hospitals. There is existing and emerging evidence that provides substantial support for early intervention and outlines key components of an early mobility program. While current evidence and best practice guidelines provide clear support,the challenge for many acute care facilities lies in the creation, implementation, and support of a successful early mobility program. In order to create and sustain a successful early mobility program, there needs to be full cooperation and collaboration from all key stakeholders: physicians, nurses,PT/OT/ SLP, respiratory therapists and administration.

The objective of this course is to help improve the understanding of the individual therapist on the implementation and delivery of an early mobility program, especially the potential positive impact on patient outcomes. Following the completion of this course, the therapist will be able to describe the key components of an early mobility program, common barriers to providing early mobility, the role of multidisciplinary communication and collaboration, and essential considerations for providing and progressing earlymobility.

Highlights

• Effectively implement the concepts of earlymobility in the acute setting
• Provide early mobility for critical and noncritical care patients to help promote improved outcomes
• Review the impact of the patient’s currentmedical and functional status on their potential participation with early mobility concepts

Target Audience: Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants, Occupational Therapists, Occupational Therapy Assistants