Assessing the Acute Impact of Orthostatic Board Utilization on Hemodynamics, Ventilatory Mechanics, and Consciousness in Mechanically Ventilated Critical

Purpose: To evaluate the acute effect of the orthostatic board in mechanically ventilated patients. Method: The quasi-experimental study included critically ill, mechanically ventilated patients who performed the standing technique using the vertical board. The parameters of hemodynamics, respiratory mechanics, and level of consciousness were measured before, immediately, and 20 minutes after the intervention. Results: Twenty individuals were included (59.6 ± 16.5 years). There was an increase in heart rate and tidal volume, a reduction in driving pressure, and an improvement in the level of consciousness ( P = .001). Conclusions: The standing position increased tidal volume and level of consciousness while reducing driving pressure, without causing hemodynamic instability.