Early Mobilization in the ICU

Globally people recover from critical illnesses and get discharged from an ICU setup, however it has been noticed that patients develop weakness, probably credited to their prolonged period of immobilization.[1] Post intensive care syndrome was the term used which describes worsening of physical, mental and cognitive problems. [2] Early mobilization of the critically ill patients is a safe option with additional benefits of improving functional outcomes.[3]

  1. Harrold ME, Salisbury LG, Webb SA, Allison GT, Australia and Scotland ICU Physiotherapy Collaboration. Early mobilisation in intensive care units in Australia and Scotland: a prospective, observational cohort study examining mobilisation practises and barriers. Crit Care. 2015 Dec 1;19(1):336.
  2. Needham DM, Davidson J, Cohen H, Hopkins RO, Weinert C, Wunsch H, Zawistowski C, Bemis-Dougherty A, Berney SC, Bienvenu OJ, Brady SL. Improving long-term outcomes after discharge from intensive care unit: report from a stakeholders' conference. Crit Care Med. 2012 Feb 1;40(2):502-9.
  3. Stiller K. Physiotherapy in intensive care: an updated systematic review. Chest 2013;144:825–47.