Enhanced Surgical Recovery Nursing Program: A Focus on Initiation of Early Feeding and Mobilization Following...

Postoperative nursing care plays a crucial role in improving outcomes and enhancing the recovery of patients undergoing abdominal surgery. Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols have been shown to significantly reduce postoperative complications and length of hospital stay by promoting early mobilization and faster recovery. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of early postoperative feeding and mobilization on the length of postoperative hospital stay and complications among patients.

A quantitative approach with a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest control group design was used in the study. The lower extremity exercises and oral feeding were initiated as early as possible, as tolerated by the patient, in the experimental group. Passage of the first flatus and return of bowel function are considered to initiate the feed following surgery among patients in the treatment-as-usual group.

In the present study, 53.6% of the study participants in the experimental group and 29.6% in the treatment-as-usual group were nil per oral (NPO) for 1 hour in the postoperative phase. By 24 hours postoperatively, most patients had initiated oral feeding (86% in the experimental and 77.5% in the treatment-as-usual groups). Delayed feeding was uncommon in the experimental group, with only a few patients remaining NPO for 2-5 days (14%). In contrast, a higher proportion in the treatment-as-usual group remained NPO beyond 2 days (16.9%), with some as late as 9 days (1.4%). Patients in the experimental group had a significantly shorter length of stay in the recovery unit and also in the postoperative ward compared to those who received standard treatment. Immediate postoperative complications occurred in 8.4% of the experimental group and 26.6% of the treatment-as-usual group, which were assessed using a checklist prepared by the investigators.

Implementation of evidence-based nursing interventions during the postoperative phase achieves significant improvements in patient outcomes. This underscores the importance of integrating current research and best practices into routine patient care to enhance recovery and also reduce the burden on the health care system.

Barboza HR, Moosabba MS, Lobo AS. Enhanced Surgical Recovery Nursing Program: A Focus on Initiation of Early Feeding and Mobilization Following Elective Abdominal Surgery. Indian J Crit Care Med 2025;29(10):823-828.