“A Study to Assess the Effectiveness of an Indigenous Protocol-Based Ambulation Program on Postoperative Recovery Among LSCS Mothers in Western U.P”

Abstract

Background: Cesarean section (CS) rates are increasing globally, with India showing a marked rise in LSCS deliveries. Postoperative recovery is often delayed due to immobility, pain, and complications. Early ambulation has been proven to accelerate recovery; however, no indigenous, region-specific ambulation protocol exists for mothers in Western Uttar Pradesh.

Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of an indigenous protocol-based ambulation program developed at LLRM Nursing College, Meerut, on post-operative recovery among LSCS mothers.

Methods: A quasi-experimental non randomized control group design was used. Total 60 caesarean mothers were enrolled by non probability purposive sampling technique. 30 in each experimental and control group. Data was collected in both groups by using observational checklist and post operative recovery score was assessed by visual analog scale. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, paired/unpaired t-tests, and chi-square tests.

Results:  The result revealed that there was significant mean difference between  the pretest and post test was 3.2  in experimental group and 8.5 in control group with a t-value of 108.92 and 32.39, again confirming statistical significance at p < 0.05.The mean post-test score in the experimental group was 3.2 ± 2.34, while the control group had a higher mean score of 4.8 ± 2.85. This suggests that there is a positive impact on postoperative recovery . Mothers in the intervention group showed significantly better outcomes in pain reduction, uterine contraction, mobility, elimination, and initiation of breastfeeding compared with the control group

Conclusion: The protocol-based ambulation program effectively enhanced postoperative recovery and is a feasible, nurse-led, and cost-effective intervention for LSCS mothers in India.