Abstract
1
Pensar Enfermagem / v.30 n.Sup / Jan-Dec 2026 / DOI: 10.71861/pensarenf.v30iSup.498 / e00498
Early mobilization in hospitalized patients with pneumonia: a
systematic review of effectiveness
Dina Peças1*, Ana Vanessa Antunes2, Cristina Baixinho3
1 Centro de Investigação Inovação e Desenvolvimento em Enfermagem de Lisboa (CIDNUR), Escola Superior de Enfermagem, Universidade de
Lisboa. Lisboa. Portugal.; orcid.org/0000-0003-2815-1241
2 Centro de Investigação Egas Moniz; Egas Moniz School of Health and Science, 2829-511 Monte de Caparica, Almada, Portugal; orcid.org/0000-
0001-5784-427X
3 Centro de Investigação Inovação e Desenvolvimento em Enfermagem de Lisboa (CIDNUR), Escola Superior de Enfermagem, Universidade de
Lisboa. Lisboa. Portugal; orcid.org/0000-0001-7417-1732
* Corresponding author: dinabaiao@sapo.pt
Abstract
Introduction
Pneumonia is one of the main causes of hospitalization worldwide, affecting different age groups, with a higher
risk for adults/elderly. In addition to representing a significant burden of morbidity and mortality, prolonged
hospitalization due to pneumonia is associated with high rates of immobility, with patients remaining up to
95% of the time in bed.1,2 Low hospital mobility is a preventable risk factor, making the implementation of
early mobilization strategies essential for improving health outcomes.1
Objective
To identify the available evidence on interventions to implement for early mobilization in adults/elderly
hospitalized with pneumonia.
Methods
A systematic review of effectiveness was carried out, following Cochrane guidelines3, to answer the question:
"Which interventions ensure early mobilization in adults/elderly hospitalized with pneumonia?". Studies
involving adults and elderly hospitalized with pneumonia were included, addressing interventions such as lifting,
transferring, ambulation, and early mobilization. The databases consulted included CINAHL, MEDLINE,
Scopus, Cochrane Library, CENTRAL, PEDro, OTseeker, and B-On. The protocol was registered in
PROSPERO. The risk of bias was assessed with the RoB 2 tool and the quality of evidence with the GRADE
approach.
Results
Ten RCTs were analyzed, highlighting that early mobilization requires continuous training of healthcare teams,
through in-person and/or online training, practical sessions, and systematic monitoring. The effective
implementation of interventions includes detailed initial assessment, progressive mobilization adjusted to the
patient's clinical condition, the use of specific exercises, and the application of monitoring scales. The active
involvement of patients and families, through education and informative materials, proved to be fundamental
for adherence to strategies. Adapting interventions to individual needs, combined with the use of assisted
technologies and specialized equipment, favors functional recovery. Continuous monitoring and
interdisciplinary meetings are essential to ensure the effectiveness and safety of the implemented interventions.
Conclusion
Early mobilization in patients with pneumonia reduces complications associated with prolonged rest, promotes
functional rehabilitation, and improves quality of life. The systematization of these interventions promotes
functionality-centered care and contributes to the training of health professionals.
Keywords
Adult, Elderly, Pneumonia, Early mobilization, Hospitalization.
Abstract
2
Pensar Enfermagem / v.30 n.Sup / Jan-Dec 2026 / DOI: 10.71861/pensarenf.v30iSup.498 / e00498
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