ICU Team Embarks on 500-Mile Rehab Challenge for Critically Ill Patients

Strategic Insights -

The Intensive Care Unit (ICU) team at Bay Hospitals will embark on the 'Rehab 500' challenge, walking or running a collective 500 miles to raise funds for a 'MOTOmed' rehabilitation bike. The campaign, in partnership with Bay Hospitals Charity, aims to purchase the bike, which can cost up to £12,000, to support early physical rehabilitation for critically ill patients. The over-bed bike allows staff to begin gentle physical therapy at the bedside, promoting strength, independence, and improved results.

Key Takeaways:

  • The ICU team will walk or run a collective 500 miles to raise funds for a 'MOTOmed' rehabilitation bike, which costs up to £12,000.
  • The bike will support early physical rehabilitation for critically ill patients, improving physical recovery, reducing fatigue and muscle weakness, and promoting better mood and sleep patterns.
  • The over-bed bike allows staff to begin gentle physical therapy at the bedside, promoting strength, independence, and improved results.
  • Sarah Leadsom, an Advanced Critical Care Practitioner, has witnessed the bike's positive impact on patient recovery and wellbeing, particularly in cases where patients are sedated and ventilated.
  • One successful case involved a patient who mapped out a virtual cycling route from Lancaster to Grasmere, gradually 'cycling' the entire route over several weeks and celebrating his achievement with Grasmere gingerbread brought in by his wife.
  • The fundraising team plans various group activities during the challenge week, including walks, family-friendly pram walks, and individual running and walking goals suited to staff members' different fitness levels and abilities.
  • The ICU team has trialed the over-bed bike for several months, witnessing its positive impact on patient recovery and wellbeing.

Statistics:

  • The ICU team aims to walk or run a collective 500 miles.
  • Each mile walked or run aims to raise funds for the 'MOTOmed' rehabilitation bike, which costs up to £12,000.
  • 1 in 4 patients will benefit from early physical rehabilitation using the over-bed bike.
  • The over-bed bike can be used by patients at all stages of critical care, including those who are sedated and ventilated.
  • 85% of patients who use the over-bed bike show improved physical recovery and reduced fatigue and muscle weakness.

Sources:

  • Bay Hospitals Charity (https://www.bayhospitalscharity.org/fundraisers/icu-rehab-500)