An observational study of physical, cognitive and social activities in rehabilitation inpatients

To describe patient behaviour related to mobility in a rehabilitation inpatient setting and compare intensive and Transition Care Program (TCP, slow-stream rehabilitation) models.

Prospective cross-sectional design including weekday and weekend sampling in two rehabilitation wards (one intensive and one TCP) in a publicly funded facility. A single trained observer undertook behavioural mapping, observing patient location, mobility, activity and company on all inpatients 8 am-4 pm using a structured 2-minute observation protocol. Observations were summarised and compared between wards.

We observed 74 inpatients on a Tuesday and 77 on a Sunday. Participants spent 7% (median) of daytime standing or walking. They spent 62%-87% in their room, 22%-40% sleeping or resting and 74%-86% alone. The only significant difference between wards was time spent off ward on Tuesday. Activity was lower on Sunday.

Time spent in physical, cognitive and social activities is low in inpatient rehabilitation and TCP wards.