EXAMINING ENHANCED RECOVERY AFTER SURGERY IN COLORECTAL PROCEDURES: PERSPECTIVES OF SURGICAL RESIDENTS AT KHYBER TEACHING HOSPITAL, PESHAWAR

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the concept of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) in colorectal surgical procedures among surgical residents at Khyber Teaching Hospital (KTH), Peshawar. This study focused on the residents' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding ERAS. Data collection took place from August 2022 to September 2022 using a self-administered questionnaire. The study included a total of fifty residents who met the inclusion criteria and were actively working across four general surgery units, namely A, B, C, and D. Among them, 28 residents (56%) demonstrated familiarity with the Enhanced Recovery after Surgery protocol, while 22 residents (44%) were unaware of it. The majority of residents (70%) acquired their knowledge of the pathway from surgical textbooks. Only 42% of the participants recognized the ERAS program as an internationally recognized protocol for optimizing colorectal disease patients. Regarding the utilization of ERAS components, the pre-operative category was the most frequently implemented (72%), followed by post-operative (24%) and perioperative (4%) components. Early removal of nasogastric tubes and urinary catheters (8%) was the most commonly practiced component. A significant proportion of residents (42%) emphasized the importance of a pre-application protocol briefing. Additionally, most residents believed that incorporating and teaching each component of ERAS in regular clinical practice was essential. Overall, this descriptive study sheds light on the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of surgical residents at KTH regarding enhanced recovery after surgery in colorectal procedures. The findings highlight areas of strength and areas that need improvement, providing valuable insights for further implementation and education of ERAS protocols.