A simple method to secure data-driven improvement of perioperative care

Abstract

Background: Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) programmes have been adopted to a varying degree by most surgical departments, not only in Denmark, but worldwide. Aims: To report the process from a local ERAS unit in a tertiary university hospital to accelerate implementation of ERAS programmes in all surgical specialties. Methods: All surgical departments receive twice-yearly procedure-specific data on length of stay (LOS), readmission rates and death within 30 days, based on surgical codes and the Danish National Patient Register. The ERAS unit and clinical experts review data followed by a clinical audit where appropriate. Findings: Setting up data presentation for clinical and nurse leaders has documented progress in implementing ERAS. The combination of outcome data, together with audits have been essential. Conclusion: The local ERAS unit has been shown to accelerate implementation of ERAS programmes in all surgical specialties, facilitated by procedure-specific LOS and re-admission data, combined with audit data.