Development and pilot-testing of a behavioural intervention to enhance physical activity in patients admitted to the cardiology ward: a proof-of-concept study

Abstract Purpose To examine the feasibility and potential effectiveness of a behavioural intervention to increase physical activity in patients admitted to the cardiology ward. Methods In this proof-of concept study, we developed an intervention supporting self-efficacy and diminishing inertia by means of autonomy support and action planning. Data collection took place from April till July 2018, including a three-week intervention period. Feasibility was assessed with a semi-structured interview among patients (n = 34), a survey among nurses (n = 20), and a focus group among physical therapists (n = 4). Potential effectiveness was assessed as change in action planning, autonomy support and self-efficacy (determined using psychological questionnaires) in 30 patients, and change in physical activity (determined using behavioural mapping) before (n = 90) and after (n = 83) implementation. Results Feasibility of the behavioural intervention was deemed adequate by patients, nurses and physical therapists. Potential effectiveness was demonstrated by an increase in action planning (mean difference: 1.76; 95%-CI: 0.92–2.60), autonomy support (0.84; 0.35–1.34) and self-efficacy (0.57; 0.11–1.03). Patients in the after-group spent less time lying down (-5.96; −8.86 to −2.86) and more time standing/walking (3.34; 1.82–4.87). Conclusion The developed behavioural intervention appears to be feasible in daily clinical practice and may enhance relevant psychological determinants and physical activity in patients admitted to the cardiology ward.