Public Perceptions of Mobility and Exercise in the Hospital and Intensive Care Unit

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the public's perception of exercise and early mobility for individuals in hospital and intensive care unit (ICU) through use of a validated survey. Review of Literature: Limited research has been performed to assess the general public's views on the importance, safety, and role of exercise and mobility for patients in hospital and ICU. Identification of public perceptions will be important in addressing patient education and engagement needs in the acute care setting. Subjects: A total of 186 respondents with median (interquartile range) age 43 (23-61). Inclusion criteria were 18 years or older and able to read English. Methods: A prospective, descriptive design was used. A survey was adapted from a validated survey for ICU providers regarding perceived barriers to mobility and was adapted for administration to the public. Content validity was established by 6 content experts. The survey had 11 items and used a 5-point Likert scale to evaluate the public's beliefs surrounding benefits of exercise and mobility in hospital and ICU. Demographic information was collected. Cronbach's α measured internal consistency and Spearman's ρ calculated correlation of responses and demographics. Results: Internal consistency was acceptable at 0.75. Survey responses were neutral toward benefits of mobilization and exercise for patients in the ICU and positive toward hospitalized patients. There were no correlations between demographics and responses. Discussion and Conclusion: The small cohort of the public responded with a positive attitude toward mobilization and exercise for patients in the hospital, and a neutral attitude toward mobilization in the ICU. Increased education to patients regarding the benefits of exercise and mobility in the ICU may be important for improving patient knowledge and engagement in physical therapy.