Critical illness is commonly associated with neuromuscular weakness, delirium, and prolonged disability.  However, early mobility of critically ill patients is safe, feasible, and is associated with decreased ventilator days, shorter ICU and hospital lengths of stay (LOS), shorter duration of delirium, reduced readmissions, and improved functional outcomes.  Two years ago our MICU team (nursing, physical therapists Monica Zeigler and Jennifer Keevern, and respiratory therapists led by Brad Kilpatrick) developed an early mobility protocol for critically ill patients.   As a result, ventilated patients began walking with staff or playing the Wii, which was associated with a reduction in our MICU LOS. Subsequently, MICU manager Janet Byrne developed a 6-month pilot with a dedicated physical therapist to aggressively identify and mobilize patients.  A week into this pilot, intubated patients are walking the halls; don't be surprised if one challenges you to a game of Wii bowling!

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