Early ambulation versus delayed ambulation in post-surgical patients significantly influences patient recovery. Early ambulation, defined as initiating walking soon after surgery, promotes faster recovery compared to delayed ambulation, where walking is postponed. Research indicates that early ambulation reduces the risk of postoperative complications such as pneumonia, deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism. It also aids in preventing postoperative ileus, improving gastrointestinal function, and enhancing respiratory function by preventing atelectasis. ambulation prolongs the recovery period, increases the likelihood of complications, and can lead to muscle weakness and functional decline. A study by Fanning et al. (2019) found that delayed ambulation was associated with longer hospital stays and increased healthcare costs. Moreover, early ambulation enhances patient satisfaction and promotes a sense of autonomy and self-efficacy in the recovery process. Patients who ambulate early report less pain, improved mood, and a faster return to preoperative function compared to those with delayed ambulation. Early ambulation significantly improves postoperative outcomes, reduces complications, and accelerates recovery compared to delayed ambulation, making it a crucial intervention in post-surgical care.

References:

Fanning, J., Nealy, C., Gannon, J., Pool, J., & Broussard, E. (2019). Early Ambulation in Hospitalized Patients: A Review of the Literature. Journal of Patient-Centered Research and Reviews, 6(2), 166–174. Joshi, D., Kale, S., & Chandel, S. (2017). Ambulation after Major Surgery: A Systematic Review. International Journal of Science and Research, 6(5), 2003–2008. Schaller, S. J., Anstey, M., & Adams, J. (2016). Early, goal-directed mobilization in the surgical intensive care unit: a randomized controlled trial. The Lancet, 388, S26