Effectiveness Of An Instructional Program Regarding Early Mobilization On Physical Status And Length Of Stay For Patients After Open Heart Surgery

Abstract

Background: Open heart surgery is associated with significant postoperative complications, including reduced physical function and prolonged hospital stay. Early mobilization has been increasingly recognized as a key component of postoperative care aimed at improving recovery outcomes.

Aim: Determine the effectiveness of an instructional program about early mobilization on patient physical status and length of stay in hospital by comparing the results between the study and control groups after open heart surgery.

Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted on 102 patients scheduled to undergo cardiac surgery. Participants were divided into two groups: an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group included 60 patients who received an early mobilization program in addition to routine postoperative care, while the control group consisted of 42 patients who received routine hospital care only.

Results: The findings demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in physical status among patients in the experimental group over the three-day postoperative period. Compared to the control group, patients who received the early mobilization program showed a higher level of physical recovery with a high statistically significant difference.

Conclusion: The early mobilization program demonstrated a significant positive impact on improving the physical status of patients undergoing cardiac surgery within the first three postoperative days. Patients in the experimental group showed faster functional recovery compared to those receiving routine care only. These findings highlight the effectiveness of early mobilization as an essential component of postoperative cardiac care.