Nurses’ Knowledge and Practice of Early Mobilisation of Post-operative Patients at University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital

Background: Early post-operative mobilisation is a proven intervention that reduces complications such as deep vein thrombosis, pneumonia, and prolonged hospital stays. Nursing knowledge and practice of mobilisation protocols remain an underexplored area in Nigerian hospitals. Aim: This study assessed nurses' knowledge and practice of early post-operative mobilisation at University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, North Central Nigeria. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was used. Eighty-five registered nurses in the surgical wards were recruited through stratified sampling. A structured questionnaire and observational checklist were administered. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were applied. Results: Seventy percent of nurses demonstrated good knowledge of early mobilisation protocols, while 53% consistently practised early ambulation within recommended timeframes. Key barriers included inadequate physiotherapy collaboration, patient reluctance, and pain management deficiencies. Years of surgical nursing experience significantly predicted adherence to mobilisation protocols. Conclusion: Despite adequate knowledge, practice gaps persist, indicating systemic and patient-related barriers. Interprofessional collaboration, standardised mobilisation protocols, and post-operative pain management improvements are recommended to optimise patient recovery in Nigerian surgical units. Keywords: early mobilisation, post-operative care, nursing, Ilorin, surgical outcomes.