The study aims to explore 1) the perspectives of health professionals on increased attendance of physical therapists (PTs) and occupational therapists (OTs) in clearly defined work assignments in two in-hospital departments and 2) the perspectives of geriatric patients on physical activity during hospitalization.
MethodsA mixed-methods study using a focus group interview and a questionnaire in assessing the impact of an intervention on increased attendance of PTs and OTs in clearly defined work assignments. The patients' perspectives on physical activity were explored in one-on-one interviews.
ResultsThe health professionals reported that the intervention led to a higher degree of patients' mobilization, increased collaboration, improved the health professionals' competencies, and provided more time for monodisciplinary assignments. The six patients stated that encouragements promoted physical activity.
ConclusionsIncreased attendance of PTs showed a positive impact on both the patients' level of physical activity and the health professionals' monodisciplinary assignments.
We hypothesized that the additional attendance of physical therapists (PTs) and occupational therapist (OTs) in clearly defined work assignments 1) increases the patients' physical activity level, 2) broadens the patients' environment by changing their location, 3) increases the time patients spend in the accompaniment of health professionals, and 4) changes the ongoing activity of patients.
MethodsThis study utilized a time series design with regard to hospitalized adults 65 years of age and older. Observational behavioral mapping was used to assess the impact on the patients' physical activity levels.
ResultsThe study demonstrated that the additional attendance of PTs and OTs significantly increased the time the older adults' spent sitting, standing/walking as compared to being bedridden. It also significantly increased the amount of time patients were accompanied by health professionals.
ConclusionsAdditional attendance of PTs and OTs has a positive impact on older adults' activity levels.
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