Challenges Faced by Respiratory Therapists in Implementing Early Mobilization Protocols for Mechanically Ventilated Patients: A Qualitative Study

Authors: Rami H. Alkhalid, Majed A. Alzahrani, Nawaf A. Alnaam

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.13772097

Short DOI: https://doi.org/gzjtp5

Country: Saudi Arabia

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Abstract: Background: Early mobilization of mechanically ventilated patients in the ICU has been shown to improve patient outcomes, but its implementation often faces numerous challenges. Respiratory therapists play a key role in facilitating early mobilization, yet their specific challenges are underexplored.

Objective: This study aimed to explore the challenges faced by respiratory therapists in implementing early mobilization protocols for mechanically ventilated patients in a tertiary hospital ICU and identify potential facilitators.

Methods: A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews was conducted with 12 respiratory therapists in a tertiary hospital. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes related to patient-related challenges, institutional barriers, and facilitators.

Findings: Three main themes were identified: (1) Patient-related challenges, such as sedation, hemodynamic instability, and muscle weakness; (2) Institutional barriers, including insufficient staffing, lack of equipment, and inconsistent protocols; (3) Facilitators, such as interprofessional collaboration, training, and standardized protocols, which helped overcome challenges.

Conclusion: Respiratory therapists face significant barriers in implementing early mobilization protocols for mechanically ventilated patients. Addressing these challenges through better resource allocation, training, and interprofessional collaboration can improve mobilization practices and patient outcomes.

Keywords: Early mobilization, respiratory therapists, ICU, mechanically ventilated patients, challenges, interprofessional collaboration, qualitative study.

Paper Id: 231205

Published On: 2017-08-02

Published In: Volume 5, Issue 4, July-August 2017

Cite This: Challenges Faced by Respiratory Therapists in Implementing Early Mobilization Protocols for Mechanically Ventilated Patients: A Qualitative Study - Rami H. Alkhalid, Majed A. Alzahrani, Nawaf A. Alnaam - IJIRMPS Volume 5, Issue 4, July-August 2017. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.13772097

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