Facilitators and barriers to physical activity in patients in an acute care hospital setting from an interprofessional perspective: A qualitative study

ObjectivePhysical activity levels of patients in hospital are low. The aim of this study was to explore the perceptions of physiotherapists, nurses, and physicians about physical activity of hospitalized patients.DesignQualitative focus group study using phenomenology.SettingUniversity hospital.ParticipantsThirty healthcare professionals (physiotherapists, nurses, and physicians) participated in six focus groups.Main measuresSemi-structured focus groups following an interview guide were conducted. Besides identification of influencing factors and development of ideas for associated interventions, participants should reflect on the roles of different professions. Content analysis of the transcriptions was performed in iterative cycles involving three researchers using inductive coding and redefining based on the literature. Consensus was reached through discussions in the research team.ResultsThree themes of influencing factors on physical activity of patients in hospital with seven codes emerged. In the theme "patient" physical and psychosocial factors were mentioned. The theme "organization" pooled all factors regarding facilities and processes. The third theme "health literacy" has an impact on the two other themes. In this theme self-efficacy, handling of health literacy/knowledge, and communication and cooperation became apparent as codes.ConclusionsHealth literacy plays an important role in the physical activity of patients in hospital. The developed model of influencing factors on physical activity highlights the importance of health literacy for all stakeholders, including patients, staff, and the organization and illustrates the connections to other influencing factors. This model can be helpful in conceptualizing interventions to promote physical activity.