Early Mobilization of Critical Care Patients — Still More to Learn

Each year, intensive care unit (ICU)–acquired weakness occurs in approximately 1 million critically ill patients who are undergoing mechanical ventilation worldwide.1 ICU-acquired weakness begins early in the course of critical illness and is related to multiple mechanisms, including deconditioning, myopathy, and neuropathy. Its development is associated with several deleterious outcomes, including increased mortality and diminished long-term quality of life.2 By improving muscle strength, endurance, and the performance of functional activities, early patient mobilization may be a treatment option for ICU-acquired weakness. However, previous studies examining early mobilization have shown conflicting results.3-7 As reported now in the Journal, the Treatment of . . .