SHM Converge Scientific Abstract ePoster Gallery-Fostering a Culture of Mobilization With Less Physical Therapy Dependence

Pdf Summary

This project aimed to reduce patient deconditioning and falls by promoting mobility in hospitalized patients while decreasing unnecessary physical therapy (PT) dependence. The team recognized that common hospital barriers—such as IV poles, catheters, telemetry, and continuous monitoring—often prevent patients from mobilizing, even when they were previously independent.<br /><br />To address this, the unit implemented a mobility-focused workflow built into daily interdisciplinary rounds. Nurses were trained to use the AM-PAC “6 Clicks” functional assessment tool and report the daily score during rounds. PT and medical providers re-educated nursing staff on how to interpret scores and match mobility needs to the appropriate level of assistance. PT consults were then canceled when the team determined they were no longer needed based on functional status and round discussion. Nursing leadership also reinforced accountability through audits, and removable devices were discontinued when possible to reduce mobility barriers. A scripted approach encouraged patients to get out of bed for meals and emphasized mobilization as part of healing.<br /><br />Results from 2022 on the unit showed that nursing use of AM-PAC 6 Clicks exceeded 95% across more than 2,766 patients. Although 1,199 PT consults were completed, over 119 consults were canceled through this process. Falls decreased from 22 in 2021 to 11 in 2022, and sub-acute rehabilitation referrals also declined.<br /><br />Overall, the initiative improved mobility culture, reduced falls, reduced unnecessary PT utilization, and supported better discharge outcomes.

Asset Subtitle

Sadia Arshad

Meta Tag

Author List Benjamin Rosman, Emily Laino, Patrick McCarthy, Rob Moy, Sadia Arshad, Tajammul Shah, Valerie Kruszon

Category Innovations

Distinguished Non-Finalist

Presenter Organization Northwell Health South Shore University Hospital

Presenting Author Sadia Arshad

Track Quality Improvement

Keywords

patient deconditioning

falls prevention

hospital mobility

AM-PAC 6 Clicks

physical therapy dependence

interdisciplinary rounds

functional assessment

nursing accountability

mobility workflow

discharge outcomes