Background: Early mobilization is defined as intervention within the first 72 h after intensive care unit (ICU) admission. According to the current state of relevant studies, evidence on early mobilization in critically ill patients is still inconsistent. This leads to insecurity in caretakers and subsequently to incomplete implementation in German ICUs.
Objectives: What type of intervention is suitable for certain patient groups? Which issues remain unresolved?
Results: To obtain best possible outcomes, early mobilization should be initiated during the first 72 h after ICU admission. Implementation of early mobilization improves clinical outcome and should be integrated in a patient-centered bundle (such as ABCDEF). Mechanical ventilation is not a contraindication to intervention. Evidence in neurocritical care as well as functionally dependent patients is still low. Mode of intervention and dosage of early mobilisation remain unclear.
Conclusion: Early mobilization is safe and feasible, resulting in improved outcomes in surgical and medical ICU patients. Further studies are necessary to evaluate the optimal dosage and duration of intervention, especially in neurocritical care patients.
Keywords: Critical care; Early mobilization; Muscle strength; Muscle weakness; Physiotherapy.