A retrospective pilot study of preoperative mobilization program for older adults with hip fracture.

Abstract Objective To investigate the feasible effect of a preoperative mobilization program for older hip fracture patients who waited more than two days before surgery. Methods A total of 38 patients with hip fracture were analyzed in this retrospective descriptive pilot study. The modified Barthel index (MBI) was used to measure functional outcome. Visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to evaluate the changes of pain degree during preoperative mobilization. The perioperative complications were recorded. Results After the preoperative mobilization program was implemented, the MBI score was improved immediately and further improved after surgery until 3 months after discharge. On the premise of analgesia, no patient experienced severe pain during preoperative mobilization. Perioperative complications occurred in 2 (5.3%) patients. Conclusion For older patients with hip fracture, the preoperative mobilization program may be a feasible method, which may have a positive effect on promoting functional recovery and preventing perioperative complications.