Effect of early mobilization on sedation practices in the neurosciences intensive care unit: A preimplementation and postimplementation evaluation

Abstract Introduction The use of sedation and analgesia protocols, daily interruption of sedation, and early mobilization (EM) have been shown to decrease duration of mechanical ventilation and hospital length of stay (LOS). Methods A retrospective chart review was conducted during a 6-month premobilization (pre-EM) and 6-month postmobilization (post-EM) period. Patients older than 18 years who were admitted to the neurosciences intensive care unit (ICU) and mechanically ventilated for at least 24 hours without documentation of withdrawal of life support or brain death were included. Results Thirty-one pre-EM and 37 post-EM patients were included. Baseline demographics were similar with the exception of more ischemic stroke patients in the pre-EM group ( P μ g of fentanyl equivalents [ P P = .188). Conclusions After implementation of an EM program, an increase in opioid use and no significant change in other sedatives were observed. Despite an increase in the amount of physical therapy and occupational therapy provided to patients, there was no change in hospital and ICU LOS or duration of mechanical ventilation.