Postural changes in Hemodynamically Unstable Patients in Critical Care Unit

Abstract

In the critical care population, heart rate and rhythm, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation are monitored continuously, providing immediate feedback regarding any changes in patient status. Hemodynamic instability is a term commonly used by clinicians to describe labile changes in cardiopulmonary status. The clinician's perception of hemodynamic instability may cause a delay or omission in turning, repositioning, and other interventions to advance patient mobility and may contribute to pressure ulcer formation. The intensive care unit's practice culture and individual clinician perceptions regarding hemodynamic instability may lead to staff not turning patients out of fear that they are "too unstable to turn."Critical care personnel determine the quality of patient care and patient outcomes. Interdisciplinary care is based on a comprehensive approach that includes standards and guidelines consistent with high quality evidenced based care.