Cannulate, Extubate, Ambulate: How the Pandemic Accelerated Development and Implementation of Early Mobility for Patients Requiring Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

Abstract

Objective: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a lifesaving modality that was in great demand for persons with severe COVID-19 infection. Although mobility of these patients has previously been safely reported anecdotally, there were no established guidelines to implement in a greatly expanded patient population, as occurred in the pandemic period. We describe the development and implementation of a program (Cannulate, Extubate, Ambulate) for team-based safe mobilization. Methods: The 3-phase protocol advances based on patient alertness/ability to actively participate. A physical therapist determined initial stage and progression and recommended mobility activities for carryover by nurses and/or ECMO specialists between skilled sessions. Results: The mobility program has been successfully implemented for 104 patients with severe COVID-19 without significant adverse events. Most patients (51%) ambulated while cannulated, and 60% were able to discharge directly home after hospitalization. Conclusions: This safe, effective program allowed extension of physical therapy goals in a highly complex patient population during a time of very high demand. Making early mobility a team goal enhanced buy-in, instead of relying exclusively on rehabilitation providers for mobilization. Utilization of the Cannulate, Extubate, Ambulate program may assist other programs to minimize complications of immobility in the ECMO population.