The nurse role in early mobilization in ICU: A Brazilian perspective on recovery-oriented critical care
Nurse role in ICU early mobilization
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54205/ccc.v34.282232Keywords:
Early mobilization, Intensive care unit, Nursing, Brazil, Critical careAbstract
Background: Early mobilization (EM) in the intensive care unit (ICU) is an evidence-based strategy to prevent ICU-acquired weakness and improve functional recovery. Nurses play a central role in its implementation and safety, particularly in resource-variable settings such as Brazil.
Objective: To describe and contextualize the role of nurses in early mobilization in the ICU from a Brazilian perspective.
Methods: Narrative review based on indexed literature and Brazilian clinical guidelines on early mobilization.
Results: Early mobilization is associated with reduced ICU length of stay, more ventilator-free days, and better functional recovery; in a landmark randomized trial, 59% of early-mobilized patients returned to independent function at hospital discharge versus 35% with usual care. Nurses are fundamental in readiness assessment, safety monitoring, team coordination, and patient and family engagement. Key implementation barriers include sedation culture, staffing workload, and the absence of structured institutional protocols.
Conclusion: Nurses are essential for successful EM implementation. Protocol standardization, continuing education, and institutional support are required to expand early mobilization practices across Brazilian ICUs.
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