The committee responsible for early mobilization training in spinal surgery at CHU Sainte-Justine has implemented an innovative initiative designed to enable patients to sit on the edge of the bed on the evening of their surgery (Day 0) with help from nursing staff and attendants. Previously, patients were only mobilized the day after their surgery (Day 1) with help from a physiotherapist.

Moving at an early stage improves pain management, reduces complications, speeds up postoperative recovery and promotes autonomy for patients and their families, thus contributing to a significant reduction in the average length of stay (ALOS) for patients. 100% of patients now sit on the edge of their bed following spinal surgery. A interdisciplinary working group of physiotherapists, managers, executive consultants and nursing consultants, safe travel advisors, nursing staff and clinical support workers developed and delivered 60-minute training sessions to all nurses and surgical staff.

In addition, the use of educational videos at the teaching centre helps ensure the continuity of these training sessions and the ongoing sharing of best practices. Since these training sessions were introduced, all patients have met this standard without incident. Benefits are measured not only by decreasing ALOS and increasing the number and duration of mobilizations, but also by improving the quality of patient care and safety.

The project has generated significant enthusiasm among staff, reinforcing interdisciplinary collaboration and expanding their areas of expertise. This model is an inspiration for other facilities and can be adapted to other surgical departments to improve the quality of care and services. The project has demonstrated the effectiveness of interdisciplinary work in accelerating patient recovery, while optimizing human resources and individual duties and responsibilities. All of this contributes to enhancing performance.

Lead:
Justine B. Gravel, Nursing Consultant