Effect of Music Listening on Early Mobility in Children Undergoing Appendectomy

The Effect of Music Listening on the Initial Mobility Level of Pediatric Patients Undergoing Appendectomy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

This randomized controlled study aimed to evaluate the effect of music listening on the initial mobility level of children who underwent appendectomy. The study was conducted at Ankara Etlik City Hospital, Pediatric Surgery Clinic, between March and May 2025. A total of 68 children aged 6-18 years, with no other systematic diseases and who consented to participate, were included. The music group consisted of 34 children and the control group of 34. A specially designed music pool, tailored separately for 6-11 and 12-18 age groups, was developed through child interviews, expert opinions, national education materials, and evidence-based motivational music. Children in the music group listened to music postoperatively, while the control group received only standard clinical care. Data were collected using the Child Information Form, Patient Mobility Scale, and Observer Mobility Scale.

Inclusion Criteria:

• The child must have undergone an appendectomy.
• Be between the ages of 6 and 18.
• Have no motor impairments that would impede mobility.
• Have no additional chronic/systemic diseases.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Refusal to continue participating in the study at any stage.
• Refusal to participate in the first mobility measurement of the study.