Walking Exercise and Its Effect on Functional Capacity and Productivity in Post-Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background: Post-CABG patients may experience several problems following surgery. Their functional capacity and productivity often decline after the procedure. Walking exercise is considered beneficial for improving functional capacity and productivity, as it can increase cardiac output. However, previous studies have shown mixed results, highlighting the need for further research that takes into account variables such as the type, intensity, frequency, and duration of exercise to better understand its impact. Purpose: This study aimed to assess the effect of walking exercise on functional capacity and productivity in patients after CABG. Methods: This study used a Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) design with a single-blind outcome assessor. The sample size was 42 respondents, who were divided into the intervention and control groups. The intervention group received walking exercise and leg straightening, while the control group received only leg straightening. The 6-Minute Walking Test (MWT) was used to measure functional capacity, while the WPAI measured productivity. Data analysis used independent and dependent t-tests for normally distributed variables such as functional capacity, impairment while working, and activity impairment, and Mann-Whitney and Wilcoxon tests for variables that were not normally distributed, such as work time missed and overall work impairment. Results: This study showed a significant effect of walking exercise on functional capacity (6.262±0.597 vs. 5.762±0.559, p=0.008), impairment while working (27.14±10.556 vs. 36.67±12.383, p=0.011), and activity impairment (23.81±6.690 vs. 19.52±6.690, p=0.044). Moreover, the study’s results showed no significant difference in work time missed (4.086±7.003 vs. 3.900±6.288, p=0.967) and overall work impairment (3.795±4.756 vs. 3.757±4.628, p=0.696) between the groups. Conclusion: Walking exercise improves cardiac function and metabolism, which increases adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, thereby enhancing functional capacity and productivity in patients. Nurses should play active roles in encouraging and educating post-CABG patients to incorporate regular walking exercises into their recovery routines.