International Round Table Discussion: Early Mobility

We have known for many years that mobilizing patients as soon as possible is beneficial to the patient both physically and psychologically. However, it is only recently that this concept is being transferred to patients intubated in the ICU, LTACS, and other high acuity areas and under the concept of early mobility (EM). The task of mobilizing these patients brings with it new challenges for staff including having the time to actually carry out the tasks, conquering the very genuine fear of dislodging tubes and lines during the mobilization of patients, the new knowledge required to conduct these tasks, and, last but not least, the specialist equipment required to allow mobilization to occur safely and comfortably for staff and patients alike. This round table discussion between a doctor, physical therapist, and nurse, all experts on the subject of EM, looks at a variety of different aspects of EM and discusses the crossover between 2 separate initiatives: safe patient handling and mobility and early mobility.

Arnold M, Needham DM, Nydahl P

Keywords: safe patient handling and mobility, early mobility, intensive care unit, patient mobility