Randomized trial evaluates early ambulation effects on recovery in post-cesarean women, suggesting effective integration into care.
PURPOSE: To evaluate the effectiveness of a structured, nurse-led early ambulation program on postoperative pain, uterine involution, gastrointestinal recovery, and psychological outcomes among women after cesarean delivery. METHODS: A cluster-randomized controlled trial was conducted in a tertiary hospital in India among post-cesarean women assigned to either a structured early ambulation program or routine care by study week (10 clusters, 1:1 ratio). The intervention began 8-10 hours after surgery and continued for 4 days under nurse supervision. Primary outcome was pain intensity; secondary outcomes included uterine involution, constipation, psychological well-being, anxiety, obstetric recovery, and global health, assessed on postoperative days 1 and 4. RESULTS: Sixty women were equally allocated. The intervention group showed greater pain reduction, faster uterine involution, fewer gastrointestinal symptoms, improved psychological well-being, and better perceived global health. Obstetric recovery scores were higher, and early ambulation independently predicted lower pain on day 4. CONCLUSIONS: A structured, nurse-delivered early ambulation program initiated within 10 hours post-cesarean reduced pain and promoted early recovery. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE AND RESEARCH: Early ambulation is a feasible, low-cost strategy that can be integrated into routine post-cesarean care. PRECIS: Early nurse-led ambulation improves physical and psychological recovery after cesarean birth.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Varghese et al. (2026) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: