On the Move to Surgery: A Scoping Review of Patient-Reported Outcomes for Preoperative Walking Into the Operating Theatre.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION Although healthcare infrastructure has improved in recent years, the preoperative journey of patients is often accompanied by anxiety. Allowing patients to walk to the operating theatre is a simple, yet underexplored strategy that may enhance their sense of autonomy and reduce anxiety. As patient-centred care gains importance, evaluating the effects of this approach on patient-reported outcomes may be more relevant than widely assumed. AIM In this scoping review, we aim to analyse the published literature on preoperative walking into the operating theatre and patient-reported outcomes, such as anxiety and satisfaction. DESIGN This study was a scoping review that followed the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses, Scoping Review extension guidelines. METHODS Inclusion criteria were adult patients undergoing elective surgery and walking to the operating theatre. Data were extracted using a standardised form, and critical appraisal was performed by using ROBINS-I V2.0, RoB2 and ROB-E tools. DATA SOURCES Embase, MEDLINE, Cochrane databases (OVID) and CINAHL (EBSCOhost) were searched up to 31st January 2025. RESULTS Our search identified 958 articles, with seven trials included in the final analysis. The studies, published between 1994 and 2022, involved 3001 patients from North America, Asia and Europe. The interventions varied, but most patients reported improved satisfaction and reduced anxiety when walking to the operating theatre. No adverse events were reported, although patient preferences varied, with younger patients more likely to prefer walking. CONCLUSION Walking to the theatre positively impacts patient satisfaction and autonomy. However, patient selection is key, as not all individuals are physically or mentally prepared for walking. Future research could explore unaccompanied walking and its effects on hospital resource utilisation. Preoperative walking is a beneficial intervention that enhances patient satisfaction and reduces anxiety, providing a feasible alternative to bed transport for many elective surgical patients. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION No patient or public involvement.