Abstract
Purpose: The aim of this research was to examine and compare factors inhibiting early ambulation due to the differences between thoracotomy for circulatory disease and laparotomy for gastrointestinal disease.
Method: A literature search of the Japan Medical Abstract Society Web Edition (Version 5) and PubMed was conducted using the keywords: “heart,” “blood vessels,” “gastrointestinal,” “postoperative,” and “early ambulation.” Based on this search, a total of 19 original research studies were selected for analysis.
Results: An ambulation program that complies with guidelines is often used to establish early ambulation after a thoracotomy for cardiovascular disease; a clinical path or unique ambulation score is typically used to evaluate early ambulation after abdominal surgery for gastrointestinal disease. Factors inhibiting early ambulation after thoracotomy for cardiovascular disease were “cardiovascular complications” and “pulmonary complications.” Inhibition of early ambulation after laparotomy for gastrointestinal disorders results from pain. One characteristic of medical staff is that they are not sufficiently aware that the placement of drains and catheters could be a disincentive for a patient to leave the bed after surgery.
Conclusions: Results suggest that it is necessary for healthcare professionals to obtain a better understanding of their patients and the barriers to their ambulation and to strengthen effective cooperation between those in different roles on a multidisciplinary team to promote patients’ early ambulation.
