PURPOSE: This study analyzed evidence of the impact of physical therapy-directed early mobilization (EM) on hospital and pediatric intensive care (PICU) length of stay, and mechanical ventilation days. METHODS: PubMed and CINAHL were searched through January 2023. Studies included non-neonates through 18 years who participated in an EM program led by a physical therapist. Effect sizes and risk ratios were analyzed. Evidence quality of studies was assessed. RESULTS: Six high-quality studies met the inclusion criteria. There was a statistically significant effect in the between-group analysis on hospital length of stay, PICU length of stay and mechanical ventilation days. CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review and meta-analysis support implementing EM in PICUs to reduce hospital and PICU length of stay, and mechanical ventilation days. This evidence can inform wider adoption of physical therapy-directed EM in PICUs to benefit infants and improve quality healthcare.
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