The Effect of a TTM-Based Intervention on the Level of Physical Activity in ICU Nurses

Abstract

Background: Theory-oriented interventions play a key role in promoting people’s quality of life and preventing the risks of immobility. Given this key role and also the critical nature of nurses’ professional duties, the present study was conducted to determine the effect of a TTM (trans theoretical model)-based intervention on the level of physical activity in ICU nurses working at hospitals affiliated to Gilan University of Medical Sciences. Methods: Based on the study objectives, this randomized controlled trial first selected 82 nurses through the census method in order to determine their Stage of Change (SOC) and then assigned 68 nurses who were in the first three stages into a case group and a negative control group. Valid and reliable data collection tools were used, including a demographic questionnaire and the TTM constructs (SOC, GPAQ, SE, DB and POC). The path analysis of the data was performed inLisrel-8.80 and the inter-correlation matrix between the models constructs them and with the level of physical activity was determined in order to design and implement the intervention. A two-stage assessment was performed, once immediately after the intervention and again six months later. The data obtained were analyzed using appropriate statistical tests and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Results: A total of 97.6% of the participants were female, 59.8% were married, 92.7% had bachelor’s degrees and 82.9% were in the first three stages of the TTM. Immediately after the intervention, 55.9% of the participants were in the preparation stage, 44.1% were in the pre-contemplation stage and 76.5% were in the contemplation stage. Before the intervention, however, only 26.5% of the participants were in preparation and 44.1% were in precontemplation. There was a statistically significant difference (P=0.0001) between the negative control and the case groups immediately and six months after the intervention. Conclusion: Performing the TTM-based intervention appears to have led to the subjects’ placement in higher levels in the five SOC.