Effects of Nurse-Implemented Early Mobilization on Mechanically Ventilated Patient Outcomes.
Journal
Clinical nurse specialist CNS
Journal Volume
40
Journal Issue
1
Start Page
9
End Page
17
ISSN
1538-9782
Date Issued
2026
Author(s)
Abstract
PURPOSE/AIMS: To evaluate the effect of a 10-day nurse-implemented early mobilization protocol on muscle strength and activities of daily living performance in mechanically ventilated patients. DESIGN: Quasi-experimental study with repeated measures examining the effectiveness of nurse-led mobilization interventions compared with standard care. METHODS: Fifty-three mechanically ventilated patients were recruited between January and December 2017. The control group (n=25) received standard physical therapy evaluation within 72 hours. The intervention group (n=28) received physical therapy evaluation within 24 hours and nurse-implemented early mobilization exercises within 48 hours for 10 consecutive days. Muscle strength and activities of daily living performance were assessed at baseline, immediately postintervention, and 1 week postintervention using validated instruments. RESULTS: The intervention group demonstrated significantly greater improvements in muscle strength across all measured muscle groups and activities of daily living performance at both measurement points compared with controls (P< 0.05). A significantly higher proportion of intervention group patients achieved out-of-bed mobility. CONCLUSIONS: Nurse-implemented early mobilization exercises significantly improve muscle strength and functional outcomes in mechanically ventilated patients. Integration of structured mobilization protocols into routine nursing care represents an effective strategy for enhancing recovery in this vulnerable population.
Subjects
Activities of daily living
Critical care
Early mobilization
Intensive care units
Mechanical ventilation
Muscle strength
Nursing care
Rehabilitation
Type
journal article