Identifying barriers to early mobilisation among mechanically ventilated patients in a trauma intensive care unit

Abstract

Mechanically ventilated patients can be at risk for functional decline (Cameron et al., 2015). Early mobilisation of mechanically ventilated patients can improve outcomes after critical illness to prevent this decline. Although registered nurses understand the importance of early mobilisation there are nurses who are unwilling to mobilise patients.

Aim: The aim of this study is to examine whether nurses' attitudes and beliefs are barriers for early mobilisation and evaluate whether an education intervention can improve early mobilisation.

Method: Pre-test, post-test intervention with registered nurses and charge nurses in a 22 bed trauma intensive care setting.

Procedure: Pre-test, post-test survey assessed perceived barriers in knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours followed by targeted education.

Results: Dependent Sample T-test revealed a statistically significant increase in post-test responses for the subscales knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours with early mobilisation. This over-all increase in post-test results support that understanding barriers can improve patient outcomes.

Conclusion: Use of structured surveys to identify barriers for early mobilisation among nursing can assist in providing targeted education that address nurse's perception. The education intervention appeared to have a positive impact on attitudes but it is unknown if the difference was sustained over time or affected participants practice or patient outcomes.

Keywords: Attitudes and beliefs; Critical care; Early mobilisation; Early mobility; Functional decline; Mechanically ventilated patients; Nurses.