The Optimal Physical Recovery After Hospitalization (OPRAH) intervention to improve physical activity and protein intake after oncological surgery: a feasibility study.

Abstract

Purpose: (1) To assess the feasibility of a blended intervention, combining a smartphone app for self-monitoring of physical activity and protein intake with coaching from a physiotherapist and dietician after hospitalization and (2) to evaluate the associated study procedures.

Methods: A single-arm feasibility study was performed with adult patients scheduled for curative intent gastrointestinal or lung cancer surgery. Patients were provided with a smartphone app and accelerometer one week before surgery, which they used for six weeks following discharge. In addition, patients received coaching from a physiotherapist and dietician. Feasibility was assessed by evaluating participation and completion rates, user adherence, system usability score (SUS), as well as experiences and safety, based on predefined criteria.

Results: In total, 32 patients were included, with participation and completion rates of 69 and 75%, respectively. User adherence to wearing the accelerometer was deemed satisfactory (91%), while user adherence to protein intake was suboptimal (59%). The mean SUS was acceptable (73.5). Patient experiences were predominantly positive, although some patients mentioned a lack of options in the protein registration tool.

Conclusion: The intervention is feasible for implementation in a larger study. To improve adherence, modifications are needed regarding self-recording of protein intake. Study procedures require minor modifications.