Abstract 3661: Implementing a Mobility Team in a Primary Stroke Center: A Pilot Program

Background: Literature review has shown that in an ICU setting, the use of a mobility team decreased both the ICU and hospital stay. Patients also experienced improved functional status, strength and an improved sense of well being. Many patients appear more empowered and more involved in their care when they are moving. There was no current literature available regarding the use of a mobility team with the acute stroke patient population in an inpatient setting. Purpose: The purpose of this pilot program was to evaluate the impact of a dedicated mobility team in an acute neuroscience setting on mobility levels, fall rates, patient satisfaction and discharge disposition. Methods: This pilot was implemented in a Primary Stroke Center within a large tertiary medical center. This facility admits 1200-1300 stroke patients annually. A RN-Patient Care Technician mobility team was available from 0830-1700, Monday-Friday, rotating on three neuroscience divisions. Patients with orders for chair and ambulation were mobilized per the team. If on bedrest, range of motion and turning was provided. The team attempted to round on all patients twice per day. All activities completed with patients were documented in the electronic medical record. Outcomes were analyzed in aggregate. Results: The mobility team was piloted for a 90 day period ending May 20, 2011. Of the eligible patients, 83% received mobility interventions. Patient testing and patient refusal were the top reasons an intervention was not provided. Mobility levels demonstrated an increase in ambulation of 22%. Falls decreased 37%. Patient satisfaction scores increased up to 19%. An increase in discharges to home with outpatient therapies and a subsequent decrease in inpatient rehabilitation were observed. Conclusions: In conclusion these results demonstrate the positive impact of the mobility team on patient mobility, falls, patient satisfaction and discharge disposition. The mobility team continues to be used with ongoing data collection to evaluate ongoing outcomes.