Perceived Barriers and Factors Affecting Postoperative Mobilization and Related Outcomes in Surgical Patients

Abstract

Perceived Barriers and Factors Affecting Postoperative Mobilization and Related Outcomes in Surgical Patients

Abstract

Background and Purpose: This study aimed to identify the mobilization barriers experienced/perceived by surgical patients and determine the relationship between these factors. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between July 2023-August 2024 with 229 surgical patients undergoing different types of surgery. Data were obtained through the Patient Data Form. The data were analyzed using descriptive, comparative, correlation, and regression tests. Results: A positive statistically significant correlations were observed between time to first mobilization and age, body mass index, preoperative fasting duration, and time to start postoperative oral intake, while a negative correlation was found with education level (p<0.05). Surgery duration and time to start postoperative oral intake significantly affected the timing of the first postoperative mobilization (β=0.029, 0.249, respectively, p<.001). Conclusion: Postoperative pain was identified as a significant barrier to mobilization. The average time to postoperative mobilization was later than recommended by guidelines. The duration of surgery and postoperative fasting were identified as strong predictors of the time to first mobilization. Gender, preoperative hemoglobin levels, postoperative fasting duration, and the use of walking aids were strong predictors of anxiety/fear experienced prior to first mobilization.

Keywords

• Early mobilization
• mobilization barriers
• postoperative care
• surgical nursing

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