SP9.6 - Introduction of a Dedicated Motivational Movement Rehabilitation Service to Reduce Length of Stay in Emergency Laparotomy Patients

Abstract Aim Emergency laparotomy patients represent a high-risk group with the need for both physical and emotional recovery post operatively. National audit data demonstrated our institution has a longer length of stay than other health boards. The need to proactively support postoperative mobilisation within this patient group was identified and funding achieved for a period of one year to employ two heath care support workers to provide a dedicated motivational movement service with the aim to reduce overall length of stay (LOS). Method Feedback was sought from staff and patients to inform the roles. The team provide daily individual patient centred movement goals with 1:1 movement support, gain an understanding of 'what matters to you' for every patient and bring positivity, encouragement and enthusiasm to recovery by providing daily motivation and wellbeing support. Results First quarter data since implementation, from March to May 2023, demonstrated a reduction in average and median LOS by 9.5 days and 5.8 days respectively compared to same quarter data from 2022. This was reproduced for the second quarter with average LOS reducing by 9.0 days and median LOS by 6.2 days compared to previous year. 95% of patients were asked ‘What matters to you?’. Feedback from patients and staff about this service has been overwhelmingly positive. Conclusion The introduction of a dedicated 7-day motivational movement service has reliably reduced LOS in this patient group for the first two quarters since implementation. The service has received universally positive feedback indicating the increased quality of recovery felt by patients.