A LITERATURE REVIEW ON THE EFFECTS OF EARLY MOBILITY ON PATIENT OUTCOMES IN CRITICAL CARE

Author Name: 1. Prof. Sunil Deoram Phanase1 Rituparna Guha2 Dr. Zealous Mary3 Dr. J. Sathya Shenbega Priya4 Kavitha G5 P.Kalavathi6 Sanjay Soni7

Volume/Issue: 05/07

Country: India

DOI NO.: 08.2020-25662434 DOI Link: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/12.2024-37745935/UIJIR

Affiliation:

1. Principal, Sai Siddhi College of Nursing, Paregaon, Tal- Yeola, Dist- Nashik (MH), India.
2. Associate Professor, CON AFMC), India.
3. Dean, Indira College of Nursing, India.
4. Principal, College of Nursing, Kannur medical college, Anjarakandy, Kannur, Kerala), India.
5. Associate Professor, College of Nursing, AFMC, Pune), India
6. Associate professor, Indira College of Nursing, India.
7. Assistant Professor, Mahatma Gandhi Nursing College Sitapura, Jaipur, India.

ABSTRACT

Early mobility (EM) in critical care settings has emerged as a promising intervention to improve patient outcomes by addressing the physical, psychological, and physiological challenges faced by critically ill patients. Prolonged immobility, often associated with mechanical ventilation, sedatives, and critical illness, leads to significant detriments, including muscle atrophy, functional decline, ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), and delirium. Early mobilization, defined as the initiation of physical activity such as passive range-of-motion exercises, sitting, standing, or ambulation, aims to prevent or mitigate these complications. This literature review examines the effects of early mobility on patient outcomes in critical care, synthesizing findings across various studies. The physical benefits of early mobilization are well-documented, with research showing significant improvements in muscle strength, reduced incidence of ICU-acquired weakness (ICUAW), and shorter ICU and hospital stays. Early mobility has also been associated with a reduced risk of VAP and improved pulmonary function. Furthermore, early mobilization has been found to alleviate psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), by promoting patient engagement and reducing the reliance on sedatives. Delirium, a common and debilitating condition in ICU patients, has also been shown to be less prevalent in those who undergo early mobilization. Physiologically, early mobilization benefits cardiovascular function by promoting circulation and reducing the risk of thromboembolic events. Nursing staff play a critical role in the successful implementation of early mobilization programs, including patient assessment, the initiation of mobility interventions, and monitoring for complications. However, several barriers to effective early mobilization exist, such as patient safety concerns, staffing limitations, and the absence of standardized protocols. To overcome these challenges, the review highlights the importance of developing institutionalized protocols, enhancing nurse training, and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration.

Key words: Early mobility, Critical care, Patient outcomes, Intensive care unit (ICU), Mobilization