Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 6, 2026

Author Spotlight: A Novel 3D-Printed Titanium Implant for Minimally Invasive Treatment of Hip Dysplasia in Young Dogs
Published on: April 19, 2024
"Walking the dog" to enhance postoperative recovery
1Cynthia W. Ward is a surgical clinical nurse specialist at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital in Roanoke, Va.
Background:
Nurses on an adult surgical unit perceived a decrease in patients' mobility and an increase in postoperative complications, which led to an initiative to motivate patients to ambulate.
Research Questions:
The questions addressed in this study refer to adult patients having surgery: Is there a relationship between ambulation and length of stay (LOS)? Did "walking the dog" affect how early and how many times they ambulated? Did "walking the dog" affect the incidence of postoperative complications?
Methods:
Photos of dogs were made available and patients were encouraged to "walk the dog" at least three times daily.
Conclusions:
Although this intervention didn't lead to a significant difference in LOS or complications, patients anecdotally reported an increased motivation to ambulate.
Related Concept Videos
Peripheral Artery Disease V: Postoperative Nursing Management
Appendicitis-II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Diagnosing Appendicitis
It requires a multifaceted approach, starting with a detailed physical examination to pinpoint the location and nature of the pain and identify any associated symptoms. Laboratory tests play a crucial role. A complete Blood Count (CBC) typically reveals leukocytosis (an increased number of...
Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...
Cardiomyopathy VII: Pre and Post Operative Nursing Management
Peripheral Artery Disease III: Interprofessional Care
Restorative Care

