This evidenced-based quality improvement project aims to highlight the benefits for patients who receive a structured early mobility program in the intensive care unit (ICU). Several research studies highlight the importance and benefits of early mobility; however, barriers such as lack of staff knowledge, lack of collaboration, lack of resources, and lack of time are factors that prevent patients from receiving early mobility practices while in the intensive care environment (Babazadeh et al., 2020; Hodgson et.al., 2022).
This quality improvement project, to be conducted in intensive care units, involves training nurses regarding the benefits and safe ways to practice early mobility on critically ill patients, including those who are mechanically ventilated. The goal is to improve nurses' knowledge and confidence regarding early mobility practices for critical care benefits. The effectiveness of this education program will be measured by comparing pre and post-test results as well as comparing patient mobility scores before and after implementation of a structured early mobility program. The Johns Hopkins Highest Level of Mobility scale (JH-HLM), as well as the Activity Measure for Post-Acute Care (AM-PAC) “6 clicks” scale (Johns Hopkins, 2025) will be used. Anticipated outcomes include increased empowerment, knowledge, and confidence of intensive care nurses mobilizing their patients, as well as improved mobility scores for patients who receive early mobility therapy.
