Effect of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Protocol on Postoperative Outcomes of Women Undergoing Abdominal Hysterectomy

BACKGROUND: Enhanced recovery after surgery protocol is a standardized, multidisciplinary approach for shorter hospital stay without negatively affecting patient outcomes. The aim of this research was to evaluate the effect of enhanced recovery after surgery protocol on postoperative outcomes of women undergoing abdominal hysterectomy. DESIGN: A quasi-experimental design was adopted to fulfil the aim of this research. SETTING: The research was conducted at Obstetric and Gynecological Department in Benha University Hospital. SAMPLE: A purposive sample of 148 women undergoing abdominal hysterectomy divided into two groups. DATA COLLECTION: Three tools were used: Tool (I) structured questionnaire sheet. Tool (II) post-operative pain assessment scale (numerical rating scale). Tool (III) post-operative outcomes assessment sheet. RESULTS: There was a highly statistically significant difference between the studied groups regarding all postoperative outcomes (p = .000). The women in the study group experienced less mean score of pain compared to those in control group on both 2nd and 3rd day after surgery. Also, there was a statistically significant difference between the studied groups regarding postoperative complication and readmission (p = .000). CONCLUSION: Women undergoing abdominal hysterectomy who received enhanced recovery after surgery protocol had better postoperative outcomes than women who received routine perioperative care.