Raheel Khan
Introduction
Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols have demonstrated benefits in improving postoperative outcomes, yet their implementation remains inconsistent, particularly in resource-limited settings. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, perceptions, and barriers to ERAS implementation among perioperative clinicians.
Methods
This cross-sectional study included responses from 214 perioperative clinicians, comprising surgeons and anesthesiologists involved in abdominal surgeries at tertiary care hospitals in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. A structured questionnaire collected data on participants’ knowledge of ERAS protocols, perceived barriers to implementation, and learning preferences. Responses were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, with significance set at p<0.05.
Results
Of the 214 respondents, 91.6% (n=196) were residents, and the majority were from surgery (90.2%, n=193) compared to anesthesiology (9.8%, n=21). Knowledge regarding ERAS protocols was limited; 41.6% (n=89) reported no prior knowledge, while 45.3% (n=97) had minimal familiarity. Key barriers included lack of institutional support, time constraints, and insufficient local research. Despite limited knowledge, 67.8% (n=145) endorsed the inclusion of ERAS education in formal training. Preferred learning formats included seminars or lectures (42.9%, n=92) and journal articles (36.9%, n=79). Perceptions of ERAS importance were generally positive, but significant differences were noted regarding hospital administration support (p=0.013).
Conclusion
This study identifies significant gaps in ERAS knowledge among perioperative clinicians, particularly residents, and highlights perceived logistical barriers to implementation. However, findings are limited by the underrepresentation of consultants and anesthesiologists. These results underscore the need for targeted educational interventions, institutional support, and multidisciplinary collaboration to improve ERAS adoption.
Authors
Muhammad Raheel
Leicester General Hospital, UHL, NHS Trust, Leicester, United Kingdom
Institute of Kidney Diseases (IKD), Hayatabad Medical Complex (HMC), Peshawar, Pakistan