Mastering Colorectal Surgery: ERAS Program at Albany Medical Center

Mastering Colorectal Surgery: ERAS Program at Albany Medical Center

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Preparing for Surgery 2.1 Reducing Stress and Being Healthy 2.2 Thoroughly Cleaning Your Body 2.3 Colon Preparation using a Laxative 2.4 Clear Liquid Diet 2.5 Morning of Surgery Preparations
3. Arriving at the Hospital 3.1 Preoperative Care Unit Check-In 3.2 Preoperative Nurse and Changing into a Hospital Gown
4. Multi-Disciplinary Approach to Care 4.1 Surgery Team 4.2 Pain Team 4.3 Anesthesia Team 4.4 Nursing Team
5. After Surgery Care 5.1 Post-Anesthesia Care Unit 5.2 Pain Management Options 5.3 Getting Out of Bed and Starting Exercise
6. Recovery and Discharge 6.1 Goals for Discharge 6.2 Managing Pain at Home 6.3 Post-Surgery Diet and Nutrition 6.4 Incision Care and Signs of Infection 6.5 Resuming Normal Activities
7. Conclusion

Colorectal Surgery: A Step-by-Step Guide to the Procedure and Recovery

Introduction:

Colorectal surgery is a significant medical procedure that requires careful preparation and post-operative care. This comprehensive guide will walk You through the entire process, from getting ready for surgery to recovering at home. Our expert team at Albany Med is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care and ensuring the best possible outcome.

Preparing for Surgery:

2.1 Reducing Stress and Being Healthy: To optimize your surgical outcome, it's essential to minimize stress and promote overall health. Engaging in daily physical activity, quitting smoking, and avoiding alcohol in the 24 hours leading up to surgery are recommended steps. Additionally, creating a plan with friends and family to coordinate transportation, meals, and other tasks will help alleviate any additional stress.

2.2 Thoroughly Cleaning Your Body: The day before surgery, thorough body cleansing is crucial. Albany Med's hospital staff will provide instructions on how to use the chlorhexidine bath wipes, ensuring your body is properly cleaned. Depending on your procedure, your surgeon may also prescribe a colon preparation using a laxative.

2.3 Colon Preparation using a Laxative: If a colon preparation is required, it is essential to consume only clear liquids the day before surgery. Clear liquids such as juice, broth, coffee, or tea without milk should be consumed. Following the instructions for bowel preparation is crucial for a successful surgery.

2.4 Clear Liquid Diet: For those not instructed to take a laxative, a normal diet can be maintained until midnight. However, solid food, dairy products, and juice with pulp should be avoided after midnight. Failure to adhere to these guidelines may result in delays or the cancellation of your surgery.

2.5 Morning of Surgery Preparations: On the morning of your surgery, it is essential to use the provided cleansing wipes and wear clean clothing. Avoid wearing lotion, perfume, makeup, nail polish, jewelry, and shaving in the area being operated on. Remember to abstain from solid food, milk, or juice with pulp and consume only clear beverages. Don't forget to bring your surgery guide booklet that contains important information, medications, and contact details.

Arriving at the Hospital:

3.1 Preoperative Care Unit Check-In: Upon arrival at Albany Med, report directly to the preoperative care unit check-in desk. A staff member will check you in, answer any questions, and guide you through the next steps leading up to your surgery.

3.2 Preoperative Nurse and Changing into a Hospital Gown: After completing the registration process, a preoperative nurse will assist you in getting ready for surgery. During this time, one family member or friend can accompany you to the preoperative area. The nurse will guide you through weight and vital sign checks, review your care plan, place an IV, and ensure you receive any necessary medications.

Multi-Disciplinary Approach to Care:

4.1 Surgery Team: Your surgery will be performed by our highly skilled surgery team, who will manage your care both during and after the procedure. They will be responsible for the successful completion of your surgery, ensuring a positive outcome.

4.2 Pain Team: Our dedicated pain team will work closely with you to explain and prepare you for pain control. They may administer a nerve block to numb your stomach, reducing discomfort during your recovery.

4.3 Anesthesia Team: The anesthesia team will ensure your comfort throughout the surgery. They will administer anesthesia to ensure you are asleep and pain-free during the procedure.

4.4 Nursing Team: Our experienced nursing team will provide comprehensive care before, during, and after your surgery. They will monitor your condition, administer medications, and offer assistance throughout your stay.

After Surgery Care:

5.1 Post-Anesthesia Care Unit: After your surgery, you will be transferred to the post-anesthesia care unit. Here, you will be closely monitored by a nurse who will check your vital signs, bandages, and offer pain relief options. Our goal is to manage your pain effectively while ensuring your comfort and functionality.

5.2 Pain Management Options: Our pain management options aim to make your post-operative pain tolerable, allowing you to resume normal activities as soon as possible. Your pain doctor will determine the most suitable pain management approach, which may include a nerve block and oral pain medication.

5.3 Getting Out of Bed and Starting Exercise: Moving and exercise are essential for your recovery, as they stimulate bowel function and help prevent complications such as pneumonia and blood clots. The nursing staff will guide you through various leg, breathing, and coughing exercises to be performed multiple times a day. Getting out of bed is encouraged on the day of surgery itself, with daily goals in place to ensure a speedy recovery.

Recovery and Discharge:

6.1 Goals for Discharge: Your ability to eat and drink well, pass gas, be mobile, and manage pain with oral medications are important milestones before discharge. Once these goals are met, you will be moved to another room to continue your recovery and prepare for discharge.

6.2 Managing Pain at Home: After returning home, you may experience some pain for a few weeks. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as Tylenol and anti-inflammatory medications can provide relief. If your pain persists or worsens, it is advisable to contact your doctor for further guidance.

6.3 Post-Surgery Diet and Nutrition: Following your surgeon's nutrition guidelines is crucial for a successful recovery. Avoiding foods that upset your stomach and consuming foods high in protein will aid in the healing process. It is also important to maintain regular physical activity and consume plenty of fluids.

6.4 Incision Care and Signs of Infection: While slight discomfort and redness around the incision area are normal, it is essential to monitor for any signs of infection. Contact your surgeon immediately if the incision becomes warm, more red, hard, or starts to drain pus. Other indications for concern include fever, inability to drink or keep fluids down, or pain that is unresponsive to medication.

6.5 Resuming Normal Activities: Once you are no longer experiencing significant pain, you can gradually resume most normal activities. The timeline for resumption may vary from person to person, so it is important to listen to your body and consult with your healthcare team.

Conclusion:

At Albany Med, we prioritize providing personalized and compassionate care throughout your colorectal surgery and recovery Journey. By following the recommended pre-operative preparations, adhering to post-surgery guidelines, and relying on our experienced medical teams, you can achieve a successful outcome. Remember to discuss any concerns or questions with your surgeon and care staff, who will be there to support you every step of the way.