Virtual Reality Strategies for Promoting Mobility in the Intensive Care Unit: A Case Report

Abstract

Prolonged bed rest is a known contributor to muscle atrophy, weakness, and deconditioning. Early active mobilization protocols aim to combat acquired weakness and loss of function in patients in the intensive care unit. Despite these benefits, mobilization of patients in the intensive care unit remains a challenge, most notably for patients with limited ability to get out of bed because of invasive devices and prolonged hospitalization. Virtual reality has gained favor for use in critical care to mitigate patients’ stress, pain, and anxiety and to provide distraction and socialization. This case report demonstrates a novel application of virtual reality and the ease with which virtual reality can be used to facilitate early mobility and activity progression in the critically ill.