Walking Toward Discharge

A lack of consistent mobility practices in our units resulted in nurses often being unaware of a patient’s mobility status. Chart audits revealed an opportunity to improve nurse assessment of patient’s mobility status and familiarity with mobility documentation, both of which could potentially impact length of stay. The team implemented interventions and tools that we shared with our unit colleagues during our project kickoff. We provided education about mobility scoring, documenting patients’ mobility, the SNAP report and use of mobility equipment. Project outcomes include: Increased patient mobility 43%. Decreased hospital-acquired conditions 50-100% on 2 units with zero falls and zero pressure injuries. Potential fiscal impact of the project is $260,992 which is a return on investment of 846%.