Abstract
Purpose
After transitioning from an intensive care unit (ICU), hospitalized older adults are inactive, which may affect discharge outcomes. We examined trends between post-ICU hourly activity counts and discharge disposition among hospitalized older ICU survivors.
Design
A prospective, exploratory research design was used in this study.
Methods
We enrolled older ICU survivors within 24–48 hours of ICU discharge. Actigraphy measured post-ICU hourly activity counts (0:00 a.m.–23:59 p.m.). Chart review provided discharge disposition. Analyses were conducted to illustrate trends between post-ICU hourly activity counts and discharge disposition.
Findings
Mean hourly activity was about 2,233 ± 569 counts/hour. Graphs revealed trends between hourly activity counts and discharge disposition. Participants with lower post-ICU activity counts, especially during daytime hours, tended to be discharged to a care facility.
Conclusions
Future nursing research should determine whether post-ICU inactivity during hospitalization is a modifiable risk factor for worse discharge outcomes.
Clinical Relevance
Activity could be a prognostic indicator of discharge disposition for older ICU survivors.
