Safety and barriers to care

The detrimental sequelae of immobility associated with critical illness have a profound effect on patients and the health care system. Reports of beneficial outcomes associated with early ICU mobility protocols may contribute to improved patient outcomes and utilization of scarce health care resources. Early ICU mobility is feasible and safe when protocolized to include hemodynamic and ventilator thresholds. Changes in environmental culture that support multidisciplinary collaboration and coordination of activities to ensure mobility therapy as a priority can be accomplished.