Early Mobilization and Prolonged ICU Stay in Postoperative Patients

This prospective observational cohort study aims to evaluate early mobilization in adult postoperative patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) and to investigate its association with short-term clinical outcomes. Early meaningful mobilization is defined as achieving at least sitting at the edge of the bed (mobilization level ≥4) within the first 24 hours after ICU admission. Patients will be classified according to whether early meaningful mobilization is achieved. The primary objective is to evaluate the association between early meaningful mobilization and prolonged ICU stay. Secondary outcomes include mechanical ventilation requirement and duration, hospital length of stay, need for reintubation, development of delirium, complications occurring during mobilization, and ICU mortality.

Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18 years or older * Admission to the intensive care unit for postoperative care * ICU stay of at least 24 hours * Ability to assess the patient's mobilization level within the first 24 hours following ICU admission * Provision of informed consent for participation in the study Exclusion Criteria: * Age under 18 years * Pregnancy * Death within the first 24 hours after ICU admission * Clinical conditions contraindicating mobilization, including active massive bleeding, significant hemodynamic instability, unstable fracture, open abdomen, or similar conditions