Patient mobility is an important aspect of patient care, particularly in the setting of major surgery or severe chronic illnesses that require prolonged immobilization in bed. Deep venous thrombosis, pressure ulcers, muscular atrophy, pulmonary embolism, and bone demineralization are potential complications of inadequate immobilization, and active intervention is necessary to optimize patient outcomes. Protocols regarding mobility tend to vary based on facility and patient deficits, but typically involve a multi-disciplinary approach by physical therapists, nurses, doctors, and other healthcare workers.
Appropriate mobilization of patients is important to minimize physical complications, but also to improve the social and emotional well-being of patients. Therefore barriers to effective patient care must be identified and addressed. The level of mobilization necessary is dependent on the patient's level of deficit. Periodic changes in position such as rolling the patient, sitting in bed, hanging legs off the side of the bed, and periodic standing are all appropriate goals based on patients' functional status. A stepwise progression of mobility can minimize complications such as excess pain and wound exacerbation or dehiscence. Therefore assisting patients with mobility while keeping in mind all barriers to treatment and potential complications are essential to decrease hospital stay and optimize patient care and well being.