EFFECTIVENESS OF EARLY MOBILIZATION PROGRAMME ON POSTOPERATIVE RECOVERY AMONG PATIENTS UNDERGOING ABDOMINAL SURGERY

Author Name: 1. Mr. Ramniwas

Volume/Issue: 07/02

Country: India

DOI NO.: 08.2020-25662434 DOI Link: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/07.2026-55516547/UIJIR

Affiliation:

1. Government College of Nursing, Nawa (Didwana-Kuchaman), Rajasthan, India.

ABSTRACT

Background:-Postoperative recovery following abdominal surgery is frequently complicated by pain, delayed gastrointestinal function, pulmonary complications, reduced mobility, and prolonged hospitalization. Early mobilization has emerged as a key component of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols, aiming to accelerate functional recovery, minimize postoperative complications, and improve overall patient outcomes through evidence-based nursing interventions. Objective:-This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of early mobilization programmes on postoperative recovery outcomes among adult patients undergoing abdominal surgery and to summarize current evidence supporting its implementation in clinical nursing practice. Methods:-A systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA 2020) guidelines. A comprehensive literature search was performed across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, Embase, and the Cochrane Library for studies published between January 2015 and December 2025. Randomized controlled trials and observational studies evaluating early mobilization after abdominal surgery were included. Methodological quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 (RoB 2) tool and the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS). Results:-The review demonstrated that early mobilization significantly improved postoperative recovery by reducing pulmonary complications, promoting earlier return of bowel function, decreasing pain severity, enhancing functional independence, shortening the length of hospital stay, and increasing patient satisfaction. Most studies also reported improved mobility and reduced risk of venous thromboembolism without increasing adverse events, supporting early mobilization as a safe and effective postoperative nursing intervention. Conclusion:-Early mobilization is an effective, evidence-based strategy that enhances postoperative recovery following abdominal surgery. Integrating standardized early mobilization protocols into routine perioperative nursing care can improve patient outcomes, support ERAS pathways, and optimize healthcare resource utilization.

Key words: Early Mobilization, Abdominal Surgery, Postoperative Recovery, ERAS, Nursing Care, Systematic Review