ICUAW Early Mobilisation — FRCA Final MCQ

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ModerateIntensive Care MedicineICUAW Early MobilisationFRCA Final

A 60-year-old man in ICU has a diagnosis of ICU-acquired weakness. He has been ventilated for 21 days. NCS/EMG shows mixed critical illness polyneuropathy and myopathy. What is the single most effective intervention for ICU-acquired weakness?

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Correct answer: C — Nutritional supplementation alone

Early mobilisation and physiotherapy is the most effective intervention for both prevention and treatment of ICU-acquired weakness (ICUAW). The TEAM trial and systematic reviews demonstrate that early mobilisation (including in-bed exercises, sitting, standing, and walking with assistance) reduces: duration of mechanical ventilation, ICU and hospital length of stay, and improves functional outcomes at discharge. It should be commenced as soon as the patient is haemodynamically stable, even while on vasopressors and mechanical ventilation. A multidisciplinary approach (physiotherapy, occupational therapy, nursing) is essential.

Reference: ICS – 2023 – Early mobilisation guidelines; Hermans G – 2014 – ICUAW review