Table 1 Schedule for enrolment, data collection, interventions and outcome measures

 Eligibility screen

x

 Consent by nonparticipating doctor

x

 Allocation

x

 Informed consent by proxy

≤72 h

 Demographic and diagnostic data

x

 APACHE II score

x

 SOFA score

x

 TISS 28 and 76

x

x

 Laboratory findings

x

x

x

 Medication

x

 Frequency, duration and content

x

 Safety and physiological parameters

x

 Mobility milestones

x

 Bed rest complications

x

 Serious/adverse events

x

 Muscle strength: MRC sum score, handgrip and quadriceps strength

x

 Range of motion

x

 Functional Independence Measure

x

x

 Length of stay (ICU and hospital), days on mechanical ventilation

x

 6-Minute Walk Test

x

 Timed ‘Up & Go’ Test

x

Short Form 36

x