Indian Journal of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy - An International Journal
  • Year: 2015
  • Volume: 9
  • Issue: 3

Benefits of Early Mobilization of ICU Patients

1Head of Department Critical Care Medicine, Sir H.N Reliance Foundation Hospital, Mumbai

2Head of Department, Department of Advanced Physiotherapy, Saifee Hospital, Mumbai

Online published on 19 June, 2015.

Abstract

With advances in the management of critically ill patients there is overall reduction in the mortality, but the ICU survivors are facing greater morbidity. The focus has now shifted to long-term outcomes of ICU survivors.

Neuromuscular weakness is a common sequela of critical illness which is persistent, and often severe. Prolonged immobility and bed rest may play an important role in the development of ICU-acquired weakness. Early mobilization therapy has been suggested as an intervention to prevent or ameliorate ICU-acquired weakness. Early mobilization is safe, feasible, and associated with improved ICU outcomes, but requires a significant change in ICU practice.

Keywords

Early Mobilization, CINM- Critical illness neuromyopathy, CIP- critical illness polyneuropathy, Safety Concerns