Clinicians play a vital role in enhancing patient outcomes through Early Progressive Mobility. Partnering effectively with nurses is key to achieving this goal.
Why It Matters:
Early Progressive Mobility helps patients regain functional independence, reducing hospital stays and associated complications. Utilizing the Johns Hopkins-Highest Level of Mobility (JH-HLM) scale ensures standardized assessments.
How clinicians can help
1. Review and Update Orders:
- Action: Regularly review and update activity orders. Use bedrest orders only for genuine medical needs.
- Avoid: Embedding precaution orders in "Nursing Communication" or PT/OT orders.
2. Consult Patient Orders:
- Action: Ensure consulted patients have appropriate activity and precaution orders.
3. Precise Precaution Instructions:
- Action: Be specific. For example, clarify "R LE partial weight-bearing" to avoid delays.
4. Team Communication:
- Action: Discuss with the RN if mobility updates are delayed or lower than expected.
5. OT/PT Orders:
- Action: Confirm necessary OT and PT services are ordered.
The Impact
Prolonged Bedrest Consequences:
- Cognitive and psychological deterioration
- Muscle strength declines 3-11% daily
- 65% of older adults lose independent ambulation during hospital stays, increasing nursing home admissions
Mobilization Benefits:
- Decreased length of stay
- Increased odds of home discharge
- Reduced hospital-acquired morbidities
Let’s commit to enhancing patient care together
Active participation in Early Progressive Mobility improves patient outcomes. Your collaboration with nursing staff ensures a structured approach to preventing functional decline during hospitalization.
