Preoperative Home-Based Exercises to Decrease Postoperative Complications: A Clinical Practice Innovation

Journal Article (Journal Article)

Cardiac surgery is associated with postoperative pulmonary complications that increase length of stay (LOS). The literature supports the use of preoperative exercise therapy to improve postoperative outcomes. This practice innovation implemented a home-based exercise program for adult patients who undergo elective cardiac operations. The purpose of this innovation was to decrease LOS and postoperative pulmonary complications in those patients. No statistically significant differences were noted between the 2 groups, however, there was a trend toward decreased LOS in the innovation group. This practice innovation was safe and feasible to implement in an academic hospital.

Full Text

Duke Authors

Cited Authors

  • Vernon-Platt, T; Bowers, M; Ikonomidis, J; Caranasos, T; Beer, D

Published Date

  • June 1, 2021

Published In

Volume / Issue

  • 17 / 6

Start / End Page

  • 740 - 743

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

  • 1555-4155

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.1016/j.nurpra.2021.01.001

Citation Source

  • Scopus