Recovery pattern and barriers to mobilization during acute rehabilitation phase in organophosphate poisoning patients

Organophosphate pesticide poisoning is a common clinical problem in developing countries, bringing with it significant morbidity and mortality. There is limited evidence on the mobility status in patients who survive acute intoxication by organophosphates. The purpose of this study is to assess the mobility patterns and barriers to mobilization in organophosphate poisoning survivors in the intensive care unit. This cross-sectional study looked at 37 patients with acute intoxication from organophosphate compounds. Patients with Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation scores of less than 93 and Richmond Agitation and Sedation scores between −2 and +2 were included. Potential mobility barriers, bed mobility, functional strength, transfers, and endurance were assessed using the Perme Intensive Care Unit Mobility score on alternative days for the first ten days of intensive care unit admission. Perme scores (2.50–6.0, p ≤ 0.01) improved significantly with improvement in the subcomponents of bed mobility score (1.83 ± 0.35 to 7.23 ± 3.84), transfers (0.37 ± 0.02 to 4.78 ± 3.84), and gait (1.83 ± 0.35 to 5.23 ± 1.27) from day 2 through day 10 of hospital admission. The endotracheal tube and continuous infusion were identified as major barriers to mobilization (66.6%) using Perme scores. Perme scores improved gradually in organophosphate poisoning patients in the intensive care unit. Identification of mobility barriers may help in the modification of rehabilitation goals.