Background: Physicians historically prescribed bedrest to treat various ilnesses and promote postoperative recovery. The practice is still common in delivering patient care. Evidence-based findings demonstrate the adverse effects of bedrest and immobility. More recently, evidence suggests that early mobilization is superior and more beneficial for patients during hospitalization than traditional bedrest. Purpose: The objectives of this scholarly project were to provide education about early mobilization and an evidence-based mobilization algorithm to the staff of a targeted cardiac progessive care unit and to increase knowledge and compliance with early mobilization. Methods: Using Ian Graham’s Knowledge to Action Framework (KTA) and Lewin’s Change Theory, nursing staff members received education on the benefits of early mobilization and the consequences of immobilization. Measures of change included staff members’ attitudes, opinions, and comfort leves. Means of measurements included a pre- and post-test. Electronic medical record documentation provided mobilization data before and after the education. Results: Utilizing the pre- and post-test, staff opinions, comfort level, and attitudes toward early mobilization all improved following the education t=4.660, p=.000. Mobilization data of 1034 patients were reviewed. Post-intervention mobilization data were significantly different than pre-intervention. Conclusion: Evidence-based education and mobilization aids increase staff members’ knowledge and can increase rates of mobilization patients in the hospital setting. Further studies should measure other patient outcomes, such as complication rates, length of stay, and staff satisfaction.
