Barriers and facilitators of preoperative education within Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS) programs

Abstract

Providing sufficient and timely pre-operative education is essential for clients undergoing surgery within Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS) programs. Ineffective education may result in increased anxiety, increased risk of complications, longer hospital stays, and higher incidence for readmissions. The purposes of this project are to examine current nursing approaches in providing pre-operative education and; examine client perspectives in receiving this education in order to identify barriers and facilitators from both nursing and client perspectives. This project will include observation and informal discussion with nurses and clients at the preoperative assessment clinics at two Southern Alberta hospital settings. The information collected was organized into a SWOT analysis to determine internal and external strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in order to identify barriers and facilitators for ERAS post-operative information. The barriers and facilitators will inform recommendations to enhance the pre-operative process, improve client compliance, and surgical outcomes for ERAS clients.