Hospital-induced immobility – a backstage story of lack of chairs, time, and assistance

Abstract

Abstract Background Inactivity and bedrest during hospitalisation have numerous adverse consequences, and it is especially important that older patients are mobile during hospitalisation. This study aimed to identify whether the introduction of formal education of clinical staff and a Mobilisation Initiative (MI) could increase mobilisation of patients in a geriatric and a medical ward. Furthermore, to explore patients’ and health care staffs’ view on facilitators and barriers for mobilisation during hospitalisation. Methods The study was a pragmatic clinical study. Both qualitative and quantitative methods were used. The patients’ level of mobilisation was obtained through short interview-based surveys and observations. Focus group interviews and formal education of clinical staff was initiated to increase awareness of mobilisation along with the implementation of a MI. Results 596 patient surveys were included. Of all patients, 50% in the geriatric ward and 70% in the medical ward were able to independently mobilise. The highest percentage of patients sitting in a chair for breakfast and lunch in the geriatric ward was 57% and 65%, and in the medical ward 23% and 26%, respectively. A facilitator for mobilisation was interdisciplinary collaboration, and barriers were lack of chairs and time, and the patients’ lack of help transferring. Conclusions This study adds new knowledge regarding the lack of in-hospital mobilisation in geriatric and medical departments. Mealtimes are obvious mobilisation opportunities, but most patients consume their meals in bed. A potential for a MI is present, however, it must be interdisciplinarily and organisationally anchored for further investigation of effectiveness. Trial registration Retrospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov with the trial number NCT05926908.