Examination of Postgraduate Theses on ERAS Protocol Applications in the Field of Nursing in Türkiye

Abstract

Aim: This study is designed to examine postgraduate theses conducted in the field of nursing in Türkiye focusing on the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols. Method: In this retrospective literature review, theses conducted in the field of nursing between 2011-2023, focusing on the utilization of ERAS practices, were examined. The inclusion criteria for the theses retrieved from the National Thesis Center database of the Higher Education Council were as follows: having key terms such as "Postoperative enhanced recovery protocol," "Enhanced recovery," "Oral carbohydrate," or "ERAS" in their thesis titles, and being conducted by departments of Nursing and/or Nursing Science. After categorizing the theses into master's and doctoral theses, they were examined in chronological order. Results: The screening process identified 21 theses conducted between 2011-2023, excluding one thesis that was inaccessible for full text. All theses were written within the last 12 years, with 3 theses at the doctoral level and 17 at the master's level. When examining the study designs, one these was a meta-analysis, 13 were descriptive, and 6 were conducted using experimental methods. Among the studies, 75% were conducted with patients, 10% with healthcare workers, and 10% with nursing students. Conclusion: The nursing theses conducted on ERAS have concluded that ERAS practices are effective based on their intended purposes. Additionally, it has been determined that healthcare professionals have insufficient knowledge regarding ERAS practices. Therefore, it is recommended to increase the number of studies conducted in the field of nursing to promote the widespread implementation of ERAS practices and raise awareness.