The voices of patients and caregivers - a qualitative interview study on what influences levels of mobility, among patients hospitalized following hip fracture surgery

Purpose To explore patient and caregiver perspectives on factors influencing mobility during hospitalization after hip fracture surgery, and how these are experienced and negotiated in everyday hospital practice. Materials and methods A qualitative interview study informed by a hermeneutic-phenomenological perspective was conducted in a hospital setting in Denmark. Using purposive sampling with maximum variation, ten patients and nine caregivers were interviewed during hospitalization. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke. Results Five interrelated themes were identified; (1) Body and mind in transition; (2) Communication as a prerequisite for safety and mobility; (3) Structural barriers and ambiguities in responsibility; (4) The physical environment and ward culture; and (5) Mobility as preparation for life after discharge. Across themes, mobility emerged as a socially shaped and negotiated practice through everyday interactions, communication, organizational routines, and situational support during hospitalization. Conclusions Mobility during hospitalization after hip fracture surgery emerged as a context-dependent and socially shaped practice rather than a purely physical task. These findings suggest that rehabilitation during hospitalization may need to attend not only to mobility prescription, but also to relational, communicative, and contextual aspects of everyday ward routines that shape patients' confidence and participation.