Implementing exercise using digital devices to improve mobility and physical activity in people receiving inpatient rehabilitation: phase II of a feasibility hybrid type II implementation-effectiveness randomised controlled trial

PURPOSE: Using digital devices to enhance the dose and type of physiotherapy exercises improved mobility and physical activity among adults undertaking rehabilitation in a previous randomised trial. The objective of this study was to determine the feasibility of implementing this intervention in routine practice in a public hospital to inform the conduct of a large-scale implementation trial. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Feasibility hybrid type II implementation-effectiveness trial. Patients from an inpatient rehabilitation ward were randomised into control or intervention groups. Both groups received usual care. The intervention group received additional exercises using digital devices provided by trained physiotherapists. Primary feasibility outcomes were: exercise dose documented, rate of recruitment, and provision of ≥30 min daily exercise using digital devices. RESULTS: Twenty-two patients were randomised; 11 in each group. Exercise dosage was documented 100% of the time, one participant was recruited every 5 weeks, and 36% of intervention participants received ≥30 min of daily exercise using digital devices over 14 days. CONCLUSIONS: Exercises using digital devices can be delivered within usual rehabilitation staffing levels, with intended dosage achieved for one third of participants. A large-scale implementation trial is feasible if trial processes and intervention challenges are addressed, and more study sites are included. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry; ACTRN12621000938808.