Can we improve patients’ physical activity levels after discharge by interventions on the Acute Medical Unit? The ‘teachable moment’

Abstract

Introduction: >30% of the population does less physical activity (PA) than recommended and few patients receive PA advice during a hospital admission (2,5). This study aimed to assess the feasibility of recruiting acute medical unit (AMU) in-patients and to examine the effect of delivering PA interventions to them. Methods: In-patients who were inactive (<150mins/wk) were randomised to either a motivational interview (Long Interview, LI) or brief advice (Short Interview, SI). Participants’ physical activity levels were assessed at baseline and at two follow-up consultations. Results: 77 participants were recruited. At 12 weeks 22/39(56.4%) participants were physically active following the LI and 15/38(39.5%) following the SI. Discussion: Recruitment and retention of patients on the AMU was straightforward. PA advice helped a high proportion of participants become physically active.

Editorial - The NHS urgent and emergency care crisis: how much worse could it get?

“…Murphy et al illustrate this with their "teachable moment" for AMU patients and demonstrating an opportunity to improve physical activity post discharge. 7 Delivering patient health education is often the aspect of care sacrificed in overburdened acute environments.…”