Which hemodynamic sign during mobilization should prompt cessation?

• A. Sustained SBP changes >20 mmHg from baseline
• B. Dizziness that resolves quickly
• C. MAP changes within target range
• D. Heart rate decreases by 5 bpm

Answer: (A)

During mobilization, the priority is stable hemodynamics. A systolic blood pressure that shifts more than 20 mmHg from the patient’s baseline and remains altered signals that the cardiovascular system isn’t adapting to the activity. That sustained deviation carries risks such as inadequate cerebral perfusion if it drops or cardiac/vascular stress if it rises, so stopping the activity to reassess and adjust is the safest course.

Dizziness that resolves quickly can be a transient orthostatic symptom and, if vital signs stay stable and no other warning signs emerge, may not mandate stopping. MAP staying within the target range suggests overall good perfusion, so continued mobilization is more acceptable when other signs are stable. A small heart rate drop alone, without symptoms or instability, is not by itself a reason to halt movement.

Therefore, the clearest signal to cease mobilization is a sustained change in systolic blood pressure greater than 20 mmHg from baseline.