Impact of walking associated with early mobilization in critically ill patients: systematic review

Objective: To evaluate the literature on the impact of walking and early mobilization in critically ill patients in ICUs admitting mechanically ventilated or not. Methods: The electronic databases Cochrane, Pubmed, PEDro, and Science Director SciELO limited to the last 10 years were surveyed, were included randomized controlled trials, prospective and retrospective analyzes and prospective controlled studies. The Downs and Black scale and adapted Downs and Black were used to assess the methodological quality of the articles. Results: Twelve studies were reviewed. Eleven articles used passive and / or active mobilization programs, active exercises, sit on the bed, chair, stand and walk. One article used an abdominal flat before start walking, six assessed impact on morbidity and mortality of a protocol focusing on early ambulation. Four studies evaluated the safety of early mobilization, two investigated the impact in the respiratory strength, and one investigated the interruption of sedation associated with early mobilization in ICU patients. Conclusion: Ambulation positive impact on length of hospital stays in ICU and mechanical ventilation in critically ill patients.