Evaluation of a group-based exercise and relaxation rehabilitation program during hospitalization for allogeneic...

Exercise and relaxation interventions have demonstrated benefits in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (allo-HSCT) patients; however, little is known about the implementation enablers and barriers for inpatient rehabilitation or its impact on health outcomes.

To conduct a program evaluation of group-based rehabilitation consisting of exercise and relaxation classes for allo-HSCT inpatients.

Prospective program evaluation using the RE-AIM (reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance) framework.

Inpatient hospital unit at a tertiary care center.

Forty-five adult patients admitted for allo-HSCT.

Standard of care rehabilitation.

Program attendance, safety, satisfaction, and fidelity were assessed. Exploratory effectiveness analyses were conducted via the measurement of physical, psychosocial, clinical, and health resource use outcomes at hospital admission and discharge.

Forty-seven of the 63 patients receiving allo-HSCT between November 2019 and March 2020 were consented. Data presented in this publication are from the 33 participants who completed study assessments (high attrition due to cancellation of research during the COVID-19 pandemic). Eighty-two percent of participants attended at least one class; however, 55% of the participants invited to the classes on a daily basis were not able to attend. Barriers to participation included transplant complications, isolation for infection prevention, and fatigue. There were no adverse events associated with the intervention and 82% of participants adhered to the prescribed activities. Participants reported satisfaction with the program and enjoyed the motivational support and social interaction. Between hospital admission and discharge, anxiety scores improved; however, fatigue, depression, grip strength, functional mobility, and quality of life scores declined. Physical activity volume and lower body strength were maintained.

Group-based exercise and relaxation classes seem to be feasible and safe during hospitalization for allo-HSCT; however, there are pragmatic barriers to be considered for optimal program implementation. Further research examining program effectiveness and adoption is warranted.