Early mobility intervention for critically ill children in the PICU

Clinical Effectiveness of the "PICU Up!" Multifaceted Early Mobility Intervention for Critically Ill Children: A Pragmatic, Stepped-wedge Trial

Not applicable Interventional Johns Hopkins University · NCT04989790

This study is testing if getting critically ill children who are on ventilators moving early can help them recover better and avoid complications.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment1440 (estimated)
AgesN/A to 18 Years
SexAll
SponsorJohns Hopkins University Academic / other
Locations11 sites (Madera, California and 10 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04989790 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of the 'PICU Up!' intervention, which focuses on early mobility for critically ill children who are mechanically ventilated. The study aims to address the high rates of PICU-acquired morbidities by implementing a multifaceted approach to rehabilitation within three days of mechanical ventilation initiation. By comparing outcomes in children receiving this intervention against standard care, the trial seeks to determine if early mobility can reduce muscle weakness and improve overall recovery. The study is conducted across multiple pediatric hospitals to gather diverse data on its effectiveness.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are critically ill children requiring invasive mechanical ventilation for at least 48 hours.

Not a fit: Patients who are actively withdrawing life support or have open chest or abdomen conditions may not benefit from this intervention.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve recovery outcomes and quality of life for critically ill children in the PICU.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies in adult populations have shown that early mobility can lead to significant improvements, suggesting potential success in pediatric applications, although this specific approach has not been extensively tested in children.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Invasive mechanical ventilation via oral or nasal endotracheal tube ≥ 48 hours at 7 a.m. on PICU Day 3

Exclusion Criteria:

* Active or anticipated withdrawal of life support within 48 hours
* Open chest or open abdomen
* Current use of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO)

Where this trial is running

Madera, California and 10 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions ChildIntensive Care Unit Acquired WeaknessCritical IllnessHospital Acquired Pressure Ulcerphysical rehabilitationpost-intensive care syndromepediatric intensive care unitsleep
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.