Sedation and mobility: changing the paradigm.

A large fraction of intensive care unit (ICU) patients with respiratory failure who survive their critical illness leave the hospital with substantial neuromuscular weakness. In light of this reality, a shift in the approach to critical care management has begun. This viewpoint has broadened the perspective of ICU care providers beyond the narrow goal of leaving the ICU alive to a broader notion focused on minimizing the complications that accompany the inherent noxious nature of ICU care. Mobilization of mechanically ventilated patients is feasible, safe, and carries the potential for tremendous benefit for our patients.