Nurse-Led Mobility Program: Driving a Culture of Early Mobilization in Medical-Surgical Nursing. Issue 1 (January 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Jones, Renata A.; Merkle, Sarah; Ruvalcaba, Lynze; Ashton, Pippin; Bailey, Casey; Lopez, Mary
• Is Part Of: Journal of nursing care quality. Volume 35:Issue 1(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-01
• Subjects: early mobilization -- medical-surgical patients -- multidisciplinary collaboration -- nurse-led mobility program -- physical therapy; Nursing -- Standards -- Periodicals; Nursing audit -- Periodicals; Health facilities -- Safety measures -- Periodicals; Nurse administrators -- Periodicals; 610.73
• DOI: 10.1097/NCQ.0000000000000404
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1057-3631

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Hospitalized medical-surgical patients are at risk for adverse health outcomes due to immobility. Despite well-documented consequences, low mobility is prevalent. Local Problem: In a 547-bed hospital, medical-surgical patients were mobilized less frequently than expected. Physical therapists were inappropriately consulted 22% of the time for routine mobility of patients. A preimplementation survey of registered nurses indicated a lack of knowledge and confidence to safely mobilize patients. Methods: This quality improvement project implemented a nurse-led mobility program in an effort to increase early mobilization, reduce physical therapy referrals for routine mobility, and reduce the sequelae of immobility. Interventions: The Bedside Mobility Assessment Tool and standardized interventions were implemented on 5 medical-surgical units. Results: Postimplementation, nurse-led patient mobilizations increased by 40%, inappropriate physical therapy orders decreased 14%, and no significant change in patient falls or pressure injuries was noted. Conclusion: A nurse-led mobility program was effective in increasing safe, early mobilization of patients and improving the culture of mobility. Abstract : Supplemental Digital Content is Available in the Text.