부산대학교 도서관

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to examine the effect of nursesʼ mobility plan use on patientsʼ length of stay, discharge destination, falls, physical therapy consults, and nursesʼ knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs regarding patient mobility. BACKGROUND: Functional decline due to decreased mobility during hospitalization results in diminished quality of life. Sixty-five percent of older inpatients lose the ability to ambulate during hospitalization and 30% do not regain that capability. METHODS: Using a quasi-experimental design, nursesʼ use of a mobility assessment on 4 patient outcome variables was examined before (n = 2,259) and after (n = 3,649) use. Nursesʼ attitudes, knowledge, and beliefs regarding mobility were also examined. RESULTS: Positive changes in patient variables occurred. Limited change occurred relative to nursesʼ knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs. CONCLUSIONS: Implementing a nurse-led mobility plan enhances therapy resource utilization through identification of appropriate consults and improves patientsʼ discharge home. In addition, nursesʼ knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs toward patient mobility planning can be positively influenced.