Early Directed Physical Therapy in the Management of Mechanically Ventilated Patients in a Medical Intensive Care Unit

"1. Passive range of motion exercises for all limbs in patients who remain unresponsive despite sedative interruption (ten repetitions in all cardinal directions).~2. Sessions began with active assisted and active range of motion exercises in the supine position.~3. If tolerated, treatment is advanced to bed mobility activities, including transferring to upright sitting.~4. Sitting balance activities are followed by participation in activities of daily living (ADLs) and exercises that encourage increased independence with functional tasks.~5. The session progresses to transfer training, and finally pre-gait exercises and ambulation.~6. Progression of activities is dependent on patient tolerance and stability.~7. Therapy intervention continues on a daily basis throughout the patient's hospital stay until he/she returns to prior level of function or is discharged."