Which devices require securement and risk assessment prior to mobilization?

• A. ETT/tracheostomy, chest tubes, NG/OG tubes, IV lines, arterial line, central venous catheter, pacing leads
• B. Only ETT and chest tubes
• C. IV lines and arterial lines only
• D. Pacing leads and central lines only

Answer: (A)

Before mobilizing a patient, any device that could be pulled, dislodged, or moved with movement must be secured and its risk assessed. This protects the airway, prevents injury, and keeps lines and tubes functioning safely during activity.

All the listed devices fall into this category: an endotracheal tube or tracheostomy must stay in place to maintain ventilation; chest tubes prevent or manage air or fluid in the chest and can worsen a pneumothorax if pulled; NG/OG tubes can be displaced, leading to feeding disruption or risk of aspiration; IV lines and arterial lines can be pulled out or kinked, causing bleeding, hematoma, infection, or catheter malfunction; central venous catheters carry risk of pneumothorax or dislodgement and infection; pacing leads can lose capture or cause rhythm disturbances if moved. Ensuring they’re properly secured and that the movement plan accounts for any pulling forces is essential before any mobilization.

Choices that omit any of these devices would miss important risks; for example, excluding lines or pacemaker leads would overlook potential complications during movement.