Revisiting Rest: Evidence-Based Shifts in Adult Intensive Care Unit Early Mobility

Improvements in intensive care unit (ICU) survival have highlighted the long-term burdens faced by survivors, including physical, cognitive, and psychological impairments. Immobility is a key contributor to these outcomes. Over the past 2 decades, ICU practices have shifted from deep sedation and bedrest toward early mobility and patient engagement. ICU early mobility (EM) is an evidence-based intervention that is safe and feasible. However, implementation remains inconsistent. This article explores the historical context of ICU bedrest, reviews current evidence supporting ICU EM, and offers strategies for its adoption.