Exploring Patients’ Perceptions of Evidence-Based Early Mobilization in Gastric Function Recovery After Abdominal Surgery: A Qualitative Phenomenological Study

Abstract

Early mobilization after abdominal surgery is a critical component in the recovery of gastric function; however, its implementation in clinical settings remains challenged by various barriers and the absence of standardized protocols. This study aims to explore patients’ perceptions of early mobilization based on Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) in the context of gastric function recovery. A qualitative approach with a descriptive phenomenological design was employed, involving seven post-abdominal surgery patients selected through purposive sampling at Royal Prima Hospital Jambi. Data were collected using in-depth semi-structured interviews and analyzed through reflexive thematic analysis. The study identified four main themes: the meaning of early mobilization for patients, barriers to mobilization, the role of nurses and families, and patients' expectations of mobilization protocols. The findings reveal that while patients perceive early mobilization as an essential part of the healing process, fears, pain, and the lack of clear guidance emerged as major obstacles. The study concludes that the development of early mobilization protocols grounded in Evidence-Based Nursing and tailored to patients’ subjective experiences and local cultural contexts is crucial for effective and sustainable implementation in medical-surgical nursing practice.