Impaired Physical Mobility

DEFINITION:

Limitation in independent, purposeful physical movement of the body or of one or more extremities.

A modification in movement or mobility can either be a transient, recurring or more permanent dilemma. And when it occurs, it becomes a complex health care problem that involves many different members of the health care team. When a patient presents with a leg length discrepancy related to hypertrophy or atrophy, impaired physical mobility becomes a concerning factor.

RELATED FACTORS:

  1. Activity Intolerance
  2. Decreased endurance
  3. Decreased muscle strength, control, or mass
  4. Edema
  5. Musculoskeletal impairment
  6. Pain or Discomfort

DEFINING CHARACTERISTICS:

  1. Inability to move purposefully within physical environment, including bed mobility, transfers, and ambulation
  2. Inability to perform action as instructed
  3. Limited ROM (range of motion)
  4. Reluctance to attempt movement

ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS:

Here are some things your nurse may discuss with you.

Intervention of this condition includes prevention of dependent disabilities, restoring mobility when possible, as well as maintaining or preserving the existing mobility. Special patient care includes changing position, exercises, nutrition and giving a safe environment, etc.

  1. Present a safe environment: These measures promote a safe, secure environment and may reduce risk for falls.
  2. Execute passive or active assistive ROM exercises to all extremities. Exercise enhances increased venous return, prevents stiffness, and maintains muscle strength and stamina.
  3. Let the patient accomplish tasks at his or her own pace. Do not hurry the patient. Encourage independent activity as able and safe.
  4. Give positive reinforcement during activity.
  5. Help patient in accepting limitations. Let the patient understand and accept his or her limitations and abilities. Assistance, on the other hand, needs to be balanced to prevent the patient from being unnecessarily dependent.
  6. Help patient develop a standing balance. This helps out in retraining neuronal pathways, promoting proprioception and motor response.
  7. Set goals with patient for cooperation in activities or exercise. This enhances sense of anticipation of progress or improvement and gives some sense of control or independence.
  8. Teach patient or family in maintaining home atmosphere hazard-free and safe.