Comparative Outcomes of Nurse-Led Early Mobilization Versus Standard Care in Acute Pancreatitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

PURPOSE: Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a serious and sometimes life-threatening condition that can lead to complications like organ failure and infection. While early mobility has shown benefits in other hospital settings, its role in AP care remains underexplored. This study assessed the impact of a nurse-led early mobilization program on recovery in AP patients.

METHODS

A randomized controlled trial included 240 patients diagnosed with acute pancreatitis, split equally between an intervention group and a control group. The intervention group received a nurse-led early mobilization plan within 24 h of admission, while the control group followed standard care, with mobilization delayed until clinical stabilization. Primary outcomes included the Barthel Index score for functional recovery, measured at discharge, while secondary outcomes included complications, satisfaction, and readmission rates. Analyses used multivariate regression and propensity score matching.

RESULTS

Patients who received early mobilization had significantly higher Barthel scores (mean = 75.84 vs. 65.5, p < 0.001). Although complication rates were lower in the intervention group (2.1% vs. 4.6%), the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.121). Patient satisfaction was notably higher in the intervention group (median = 8 vs. 7, p < 0.001). Readmission rates were slightly lower but not significant (0.4% vs. 1.3%, p = 0.313). Propensity score analysis supported these findings.

CONCLUSION

Nurse-led early mobilization appears to boost functional recovery and satisfaction in AP patients, with no added risks. These findings suggest early mobilization may be a valuable addition to standard AP care, warranting further research.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: ChiCTR2000013176.