Patient mobility is a critical factor in reducing adverse outcomes in hospitalized patients. The Johns Hopkins Highest Level of Mobility (JH-HLM) assessment tool has been integrated into nursing practice to support the promotion and documentation of patient mobility. This capstone project aims to address a gap in nursing practice related to both patient mobility and the documentation of mobility goals. Specifically, the objective is to increase mobility rates among patients in a medical-surgical inpatient unit by improving compliance with JH-HLM documentation in an acute care setting. A microsystem assessment and gap analysis were conducted on a 30-bed medical-surgical unit. Data analyzed included quarterly JH-HLM mobility scores and the timing of staff education. Findings from July 2023 to March 2025 revealed that documented JH-HLM scores consistently remained below 40%. Additionally, a comparison of mobility scores with education delivery times between February 2023 and August 2024 revealed a knowledge gap regarding the effective use of the JH-HLM tool. To address this gap, "badge buddies"--a quick-reference tool worn by staff--will be implemented to serve as an accessible resource for proper use and documentation of the JH-HLM tool. This intervention is expected to improve documentation accuracy and ultimately enhance patient mobility outcomes.
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Details
Title
Measuring mobility
Creators
Claudia Graham
Contributors
Alicemarie R. Poyss (Advisor) - Drexel University, Nursing (Graduate)
Awarding Institution
Drexel University
Degree Awarded
Master of Science (M.S.)
Publisher
Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Number of pages
31 pages
Resource Type
Thesis
Language
English
Academic Unit
Nursing (Graduate); College of Nursing and Health Professions; Drexel University