Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS): a literature review of implications for ostomates and stoma care nurses

Abstract

This article explores the rationale behind enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS), and the implications for both patients and stoma care nurses (SCNs). ERAS is used for many elective patient surgical pathways worldwide. The aim is to reduce hospital stay, maximise patient outcomes and minimise complications, with the added benefit of reducing cost for the hospital service provider. The literature demonstrates that centres adhere to the various modalities of the ERAS pathway differently; however, the outcomes follow similar trends. The SCN plays a key role in the education of stoma patients on the ERAS pathway. With intensive pre- and postoperative training, the need for patient education in stoma self-care should not delay discharge. The SCN also needs to be easily accessible for patient support and review, preventing unnecessary readmission to hospital. When asked, patients are happy with their pathway and level of support received from the SCN.