"We use the BMAT, which stands for Bedside Mobility Assessment Tool. Research shows that this is an effective way for nurses to assess how well patients can move," explains Laura Samuels, RN. "We do a step-by-step assessment twice a day and assign a BMAT score giving mobility exercises appropriate for that patient's current condition. Then we can safely assist patients with increasing activity levels." "Whether it’s doing leg and arm exercises in bed, getting up to a chair or walking, we can keep patients safe. The hospital also invested in safety equipment like ceiling and mobile lift machines, more walkers and gait belts, along with training on these devices. We keep patients safe from falls and staff safe from injury. "Initially there was concern by nurses that trying to increase time patients are out of bed would increase fall risk. Research has proven the opposite. When assessing how strong a patient is every day, we can make sure they have appropriate exercises to keep getting stronger. When they can stand and walk, they are less likely to fall. And finally, improving mobility gives patients mind and spirit a lift as well."
