This post was written by Kendra Manns, MSN, RN, MICU, NCAT Chair and clinical nurse, and Jennifer Rechter, MSN, RN-BC, AGNCS-BC, MICU and 3-South clinical nurse specialist, PHS sepsis coordinator.
The concept began when Parkview nurses in the Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU) noticed a decrease in the number of patients being mobilized while on their unit.
The idea: The team decided to focus on early mobility for patients who required a breathing machine, special lines or drains and critical care treatment that met specific criteria.
The goal: To improve the care they provided by working on early mobility to enhance the health and quality of life of their critical care patients and reduce the amount of time patients were hospitalized or receiving care in a critical care unit.
The reference: The MICU team collaborated with a hospital in Minnesota to inquire about ideas and resources they would need to achieve this, as this hospital published their research with positive results.
Implementing new procedures
Safety, for both staff and patients, was paramount to this new approach to care. To achieve this, the MICU team focused on mobility champions that consisted of nursing staff, providers and ancillary departments. They also developed guidelines by partnering with physical therapy to provide tips and tricks to move patients safely.
We identified that the unit could use some extra equipment, and The Parkview Health Foundation supported this project, donating funds that were used for wheelchairs. We also received free walkers through donations. Additionally, nursing leaders and administration supported the unit’s purchase of 20 recliner chairs.
Through this work, the MICU team continues to mobilize patients early and consistently. The initiative was successful because nurses recognized an opportunity for change and utilized other departments to help make it happen.
