Caregivers experiences of mobilization immediately after abdominal surgery

Abstract

Introduction: Early mobilization (EM), is highly recommended after abdominal surgery. Caregivers play an important role in motivating patients, facilitating the mobilization, assisting and guiding EM. Since the caregivers’ engagement seems to be crucial for successful mobilization, it is important to explore their experience in initiating and participating in mobilization immediately after surgery. Aim: to explore the caregivers experiences of mobilizing patients within the first hours after abdominal surgery. Material and Methods: Face-to-face interviews, following a semi-structured guide were conducted with 17 caregivers who participated in an RCT where patients were mobilized at a postoperative recovery unit, within the first two hours after abdominal cancer surgery. The transcribed interviews were analyzed in an inductive manner using qualitative content analysis. Results: The preliminary results indicate that the caregivers consider mobilization as an important part of the care at the postoperative recovery unit. Negative attitudes was based on that the caregivers did not have enough time or knowledge to perform EM. Positive attitudes was based on that the caregivers experienced that the patients tends to favor physically as well as mentally by EM. However, to facilitate EM at the postoperative recovery unit, there is a need for; education and predefined protocols for EM and that the intervention is supported by the management. Finally, there is a need for physiotherapists available when the patients´ enter the postoperative recovery unit, to guide and lead the EM. Conclusion: Knowledge about how caregivers experience EM immediately after surgery can facilitate safe and efficient mobilization.