Tilt Talk

Tilt Talk Episode 10: Verticalization + Resistance Training, Adults on ECMO

In this episode, host Jenna Hightower sits down with Dr. Linda Sousse to discuss her newly published research titled: “Use of Structured Exercise Program with Resistance Training and Verticalization in Adults on Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: A Prospective Pilot Study”. Dr. Sousee breaks down this revolutionary care model: combining early verticalization with progressive resistance training for adults on ECMO. She shares her findings on how this dual approach fights muscle wasting and can improve survival outcomes. We explore the exact mechanics of the protocol, how intermittent verticalization via the Total Lift Bed mitigates hemodynamic risks, and what these physical outcomes mean for the future of critical care rehabilitation.

Tilt Talk Episode 9:Nursing at the Center of ICU Mobility

In this episode of Tilt Talk, host and ICU nurse Becky Rimert sits down with two experienced nurses from Allegheny General Hospital (AGH)—Michelle and Margie—to explore the critical role nurses play in verticalization and early mobility in the ICU.From bedside advocacy to real-time clinical decision-making, this conversation highlights how nurses drive safe mobility forward—even in high-acuity environments. Michelle and Margie share practical insights on workflow, teamwork, patient selection, and how nursing leadership directly impacts outcomes like strength, delirium reduction, and recovery trajectory.Whether you’re just starting an ICU mobility program or looking to take it to the next level, this episode reinforces a simple truth: early mobility doesn’t happen without nursing buy-in—and nursing leadership.🎧 Topics include:The nurse’s role in initiating and sustaining ICU mobilityReal-world barriers—and how nurses overcome themTeam communication during verticalizationWhy nursing ownership is the key to culture changeThis episode is a must-listen for ICU nurses, nurse leaders, and anyone passionate about advancing early mobility at the bedside.

Tilt Talk Episode 8 From Bedrest to Verticalization: Andrea’s Voice from the ICU

From Bedrest to Verticalization: Andrea’s Voice from the ICUIn this powerful episode, we sit down with Andrea, a patient living with heart failure who joins us from the ICU while supported by a femoral intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP). From the unique perspective of someone navigating critical illness, Andrea shares what it’s really like to be in the ICU—confined to bed, surrounded by monitors, and facing uncertainty—while still finding moments of strength, dignity, and hope.Andrea also describes how verticalization using the VitalGo Total Lift Bed has played a meaningful role in her journey, helping her reconnect with her body and sense of self during an incredibly vulnerable time. Beyond the technology and clinical care, this conversation centers on the person behind the patient: Andrea’s life, her resilience, her humor, and her voice. We are profoundly grateful to Andrea for her openness and courage, and to her extraordinary care team whose compassion and collaboration made this interview possible.,

Tilt Talk Episode 7 – Awakening Potential: Verticalization in Neuro-Critical Care with Dr. Dakakni

Episode 7 – Awakening Potential: Verticalization Therapy in Neuro-Critical Care with Dr. Tarek DakakniIn this episode of Tilt Talk, we’re joined by Dr. Tarek Dakakni, MD, FCCP, neurocritical care and vascular neurologist and Medical Director of Neurosciences at Northeast Georgia Medical Center Gainesville, to explore the intersection of neuroscience, critical care, and mobility.Dr. Dakakni defines Disorders of Consciousness (DoC) and discusses the physical and cognitive consequences of prolonged immobility, including deconditioning, secondary complications, and limited neurological stimulation. We examine why early, graded sensory input—particularly through upright positioning—is critical for promoting arousal, attention, and brain reorganization, while also supporting airway clearance, muscle tone regulation, and overall physiological function.The conversation also addresses ICP management, contrasting traditional bed rest with emerging approaches to controlled early mobilization. Dr. Dakakni explains the physiological rationale for gradual verticalization and its potential impact on cerebral perfusion, CSF dynamics, and edema management. We discuss the role of the Total Lift Bed in enabling safe, precise, and closely monitored verticalization, and highlight the importance of multidisciplinary teamwork in advancing mobility practices in the Neuro ICU.This episode offers an evidence-informed look at how upright positioning can support recovery in some of the most neurologically vulnerable patients.

Tilt Talk Episode 6 (Guest Stephen Ramsey)

🎙️ VitalGo’s Tilt Talk — Episode: Advancing ECMO Mobility: Inside the New ELSO Rehabilitation & Mobilization Guidelines Guest: Dr. Stephen Ramsey In Part 2 of our special series with Dr. Stephen Ramsey, Tilt Talk explores one of the most significant recent advancements in critical care: the development of the ELSO ECMO Rehabilitation and Mobilization Guidelines. As a key contributor, Dr. Ramsey provides an insider’s look at how these landmark guidelines came together—and why they matter now more than ever. In this episode, we unpack:     •    The origin story of the guidelines: how the idea formed, the clinical questions that drove the initiative, and the collaborative process that shaped the final document     •    The multidisciplinary team behind the work, highlighting the global experts who brought diverse perspectives and frontline experience     •    The evidence base: what current research shows about early mobility, safety, and functional outcomes for ECMO-supported patients     •    What the guidelines include, from risk stratification to progression pathways to best practices for mobilizing even the sickest patients     •    Why verticalization matters—and how Dr. Ramsey emphasizes its role as a cornerstone of modern ECMO care, supporting early physiologic engagement and safer mobilization in complex cases Dr. Ramsey also shares remarkable patient stories that illustrate the power of thoughtful, compassionate, mobility-focused care—from day-one humanization to the moment of discharge. His insights offer both practical guidance and meaningful reminders of the “why” behind advancing rehabilitation in critical care. Whether you’re implementing ECMO mobility practices or looking to elevate your current program, this episode sheds light on the science, collaboration, and heart behind the newest ELSO standards—and the evolving future of ECMO care.