Enhancing Mobility in Oncology: Evidence-Based Practices Across the Care Continuum.

OBJECTIVES

Provide an overview of research-derived insights aimed at elucidating best practices for enhancing mobility in patients with cancer throughout the entirety of the care continuum. Highlighting the value of a multidisciplinary approach involving various healthcare professionals to optimize mobility outcomes for patients with cancer and the benefits of different approaches.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted in PubMed/Medline, CINAHL, Scopus, Embase, and on Google Scholar using search terms, mobility, exercise, cancer, nurs*, physical activity, pre-habilitation, rehabilitation, best practices. Systematic reviews, meta-analyses, peer reviewed research studies, exercise, and physical activity recommendations were reviewed to provide a comprehensive overview of strategies aimed at enhancing mobility in patients with cancer.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine references were included in this overview of enhancing mobility in patients with cancer across the care continuum.

CONCLUSIONS

Evidence-based strategies prioritize enhancing mobility for patients with cancer, aiming to boost physical functioning and overall quality of life. Healthcare providers should consider each patient's unique needs and limitations when implementing these evidence-based approaches, emphasizing a multidisciplinary approach involving oncologists, surgeons, nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and other professionals to ensure comprehensive and personalized care focused on improving mobility.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Nurses advocate for incorporating exercise into cancer care plans throughout the entire treatment journey, collaborating with healthcare team members to tailor programs to individual patient needs. Working together as an interdisciplinary team, nurses help develop an overall care plan that emphasizes exercise as an important aspect of cancer care, using their expertise to create customized exercise routines to encourage and motivate patients to participate in physical activity.