Postoperative recovery from the perspective of day surgery patients: A phenomenographic study

A Patient-Oriented Implementation Strategy for a Perioperative mHealth Intervention: Feasibility Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Day surgery is being increasingly implemented across Europe, driven in part by capacity problems. Patients recovering at home could benefit from tools tailored to their new care setting to effectively manage their convalescence. The mHealth application ikHerstel is one such tool, but although it administers its functions in the home, its implementation hinges on health care professionals within the hospital.

OBJECTIVE

We conducted a feasibility study of an additional patient-oriented implementation strategy for ikHerstel. This strategy aimed to empower patients to access and use ikHerstel independently, in contrast to implementation as usual, which hinges on the health care professional acting as gatekeeper. Our research question was "How well are patients able to use ikHerstel independently of their health care professional?"

METHODS

We investigated the implementation strategy in terms of its recruitment, reach, dose delivered, dose received, and fidelity. Patients with a recent or prospective elective surgery were recruited using a wide array of materials to simulate patient-oriented dissemination of ikHerstel. Data were collected through web-based surveys. Descriptive analysis and open coding were used to analyze the data.

RESULTS

Recruitment yielded 213 registrations, with 55 patients ultimately included in the study. The sample was characterized by patients undergoing abdominal surgery, with high literacy and above average digital health literacy, and included an overrepresentation of women (48/55, 87%). The implementation strategy had a reach of 81% (63/78), with 87% (55/67) of patients creating a recovery plan. Patients were satisfied with their independent use of ikHerstel, rating it an average 7.0 (SD 1.9) of 10, and 54% (29/54) of patients explicitly reported no difficulties in using it. A major concern of the implementation strategy was conflicts in recommendations between ikHerstel and the health care professionals, as well as the resulting feelings of insecurity experienced by patients.

CONCLUSIONS

In this small feasibility study, most patients were satisfied with the patient-oriented implementation strategy. However, the lack of involvement of health care professionals due to the strategy contributed to patient concerns regarding conflicting recommendations between ikHerstel and health care professionals.

Undergoing Orthopaedic Day Surgery: What Factors Are Associated With patients' Feeling of Safety and Their Recovery?

AIM

The study aimed to examine factors associated with the perceived feeling of safety and postoperative recovery in patients who have undergone orthopaedic day surgery under regional anaesthesia.

DESIGN

The design was quantitative, descriptive, and cross-sectional. The study participants comprised a consecutive sample (n = 209) of patients who underwent orthopaedic day surgery under regional anaesthesia.

METHODS

A questionnaire was sent to the home addresses of the study population approximately 3 weeks postoperatively. The questionnaire included the Feeling Safe During Surgery Scale (FSS), the Swedish version of the post-discharge surgical recovery scale (S-PSR), and questions concerning background variables. Multivariate regression models were used to examine the association of different variables with both feeling safe and postoperative recovery.

RESULTS

The only factor associated with the feeling of safety was preoperative anxiety; higher levels of preoperative anxiety were associated with lower levels of perceived safety during surgery. The factors associated with postoperative recovery were the recovery process itself and the patient's feeling of safety. Higher levels of postoperative anxiety were associated with a lower level of postoperative recovery. Higher levels of perceived safety during surgery were associated with higher postoperative recovery.

CONCLUSION

The perceived feeling of safety in the perioperative period could not be explained by factors such as age, gender, or level of education. Based on the results of this study, postoperative recovery was associated with the perceived feeling of safety in the perioperative period. Anxiety in the perioperative period was associated with patients' perceived feeling of safety and their postoperative recovery. Thus, this study's results emphasise the importance of ensuring that people undergoing surgery feel safe to promote their recovery. Based on previous research, the nurse-patient relationship seems to be an important part of making patients feel safe, which ultimately affects their recovery.

IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PROFESSION/AND OR PATIENT CARE

This study examines the association between perceived feeling of safety in the perioperative period and patients' postoperative recovery after undergoing orthopaedic day surgery under regional anaesthesia. Previous research has shown that the nurse-patient relationship and patients' possibilities to participate in their care are important for them to feel safe. This study further emphasises the importance of fostering relationships in the perioperative period and making patients an active part in decision-making, as it may positively impact their recovery. Creating a feeling of safety for the patient should be prioritised, as it benefits their perioperative experience and postoperative recovery.

REPORTING METHOD

This research is reported in accordance with the STROBE guidelines.

PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION

No patient or public contribution.

Patient-Centeredness in the Perioperative Period-A Rapid Review of Current Research

PURPOSE

The indication of surgery is a critical moment in a person's life implying different needs, feelings, or fears. The aim of the current literature review was to elucidate the prevailing utilization of the concepts 'patient-centeredness' and 'person-centeredness' within the perioperative period.

DESIGN

A rapid review design.

METHODS

Literature searches were conducted in the databases PubMed, Scopus (Elsevier), American Psychological Association PsychInfo (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), CINAHL (Ovid), and Cochrane Library in December 2022. Rayyan software was used to assess the articles. Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools were used to evaluate the quality of the included articles. Thematic analysis was used to identify themes across the articles.

FINDINGS

The electronic database searches identified 1,967 articles. A total of 12 articles were assessed in full text against the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and finally, a total of seven articles were included. The articles originated from six countries, employed disparate methodological approaches, and featured a heterogeneous array of participants representing various health care settings. Patient-centeredness held the mantle as the most prominently used concept across the seven articles, whereas person-centeredness emerged as the least frequently explored concept. One theme was identified across the articles; Preparedness. This was related to shared decision-making and information pre, peri- and postoperative.

CONCLUSIONS

This rapid review suggests that patient preparedness, particularly through shared decision-making and providing information, is a recurring theme in the limited studies on patient- or centeredness in the perioperative context. The fact that only one single study focuses on person-centered care underscores the pressing need for a comprehensive re-evaluation of modern perioperative care.

Patient participation in surgical wound care in acute care settings: An integrative review

BACKGROUND

Surgical site infections can significantly impact postoperative recovery. Patient participation, which involves patients actively engaging in wound care, has been linked to improved healing and reduced wound complications. However, there is limited synthesis of the literature that explores the patient's role and participation in the context of surgical wound care.

OBJECTIVE

To explore patients' perceptions of how they participate in surgical wound care, within 30 days post-operation.

DESIGN

An integrative review guided by Whittemore and Knafl's methodology. This review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022363669).

DATA SOURCES

Searches were conducted in Medline (Ovid), CINAHL (Complete), and EMBASE (Elsevier) databases in October 2023, supplemented by forward and backward citation searching.

REVIEW METHODS

Based on a priori eligibility criteria, two authors independently screened articles to select relevant studies. The quality of the included research articles was critically appraised using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. A descriptive and thematic synthesis was used to synthesise the findings.

RESULTS

Of the 4701 records screened for titles and abstracts, 25 studies using qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods designs were included. Three key themes were identified. In theme 1, 'I am healing: how my wound shapes me and my journey,' physical symptoms, psychological factors and previous experiences significantly influenced patients' engagement in wound care. Theme 2, 'Taking charge of my healing: my active engagement in wound care' described how patient participation in surgical wound care goes beyond clinical procedures and can include the use of technology and holistic self-care. Finally, theme 3, 'Navigating the path to recovery: How others shape my experience' showed that effective communication is crucial for promoting participation, yet issues like inadequate information can leave patients unprepared for wound management.

CONCLUSIONS

This review highlights opportunities to personalise and prioritise a patient-oriented approach to surgical wound care. Clinicians and educators should adopt an individualised approach by tailoring patient participation based on patient factors (i.e. physical symptoms) and adopt patient-centred communication approaches. Researchers should focus on exploring approaches to self-care and technology, as these approaches may enhance patient participation in wound care.

Same-Day Discharge After a Minimally Invasive Colectomy: A Successful Approach to Patient Selection

BACKGROUND

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols have been shown to decrease inpatient length of stay (LOS) and improve surgical outcomes in elective abdominal colorectal procedures. Discharging a patient home after a minimally invasive colectomy on the same calendar day is a multifactorial decision that takes into account the patient's decision and baseline condition, social factors, intraoperative findings, and postoperative recovery status. The aim of this study is to evaluate the outcomes of same-day discharge (SDD) following minimally invasive colectomy within an ERAS protocol in a community hospital setting in Houston, Texas.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study, all consecutive elective cases were performed by a single surgeon from April 2022 to April 2023. This retrospective analysis aims to report a single senior surgeon's experience of the safety, feasibility, and benefits of same-day discharge after minimally invasive colectomy in preselected patients. Same-day discharge was defined as a discharge on the same calendar day without an overnight stay. Differences between specific groups were compared using the Fisher's exact test and Mann-Whitney U test.

RESULTS

Of 86 non-emergent colectomies, 41 patients (47.7%) were successfully discharged on the same day. The median age of the patients was 63.50 years (interquartile range (IQR) 18). The cohort included 37 females (43%) and 49 males (57%). The median LOS was one day. The median operating time was 148.50 minutes (IQR 68.25). The median intraoperative fluid usage was 1500 mL (IQR 36.25), and the median estimated blood loss (EBL) was 25 mL (IQR 36.25). No readmissions among the SDD patients (0%), while three readmissions were reported in patients who stayed overnight (3.4%).  Conclusion: Same-day discharge after a minimally invasive colectomy is feasible when there is a well-established ERAS protocol and there is adequate education for patients and staff. Adequate patient selection is crucial. Patients with multiple comorbidities and a lack of a support network are not suitable candidates.

Health literacy friendly organizations - A scoping review about promoting health literacy in a surgical setting

OBJECTIVE

This review aims to describe interventions that promote health literacy in a surgical setting and identify knowledge gaps for future research.

METHODS

A scoping review with a systematic search was performed in Medline, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science between January 1, 2012, and January 23, 2024. All screening was conducted using the Covidence software. In total, the search yielded 6 281 articles.

RESULTS

Eighteen articles were included in the results. Studies were heterogeneous regarding the type of health literacy measured, type of surgery, and type of intervention. Most interventions were educational to improve knowledge, decision making or health literacy through digital media, group sessions or consent forms. Most interventions had a positive impact on health literacy.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with limited health literacy may benefit from a variety of interventions. However, research in this area is sparse. Further research is needed into interventions that may be beneficial for patients.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Measure, evaluate and implement health literacy-friendly options to ensure people can make safe and sound decisions for their care. Researchers need to consider the type of health literacy investigated and the type of instrument used in the research.

Postoperative Pain Relief After Ambulatory Laparoscopic Surgery a Nonmatched Case-Control Study

PURPOSE

To examine whether patient involvement using a Patient Decision Aid has a positive effect on pain levels, by giving them an active role in choosing a pain schedule for postoperative pain assessment and pain management.

DESIGN

A nonmatched case-control study.

METHODS

101 adults 18 years or older were included to choose between 1 of 3 possible schedules for postoperative pain management. Perioperative variables, for example, patients' assessments of pain were registered at the hospital and further variables after discharge at postoperative day 1 (POD1), POD3, and POD7, for example, patients' ability to sleep and assessment of nausea.

FINDINGS

Less pain after discharge was seen among patients choosing pain schedule II at POD1 (P = .0439). A significantly higher consumption of opioids (P = 0010) on POD1 in patients who have chosen pain schedule II.

CONCLUSIONS

Improved patient involvement by choosing a user-controlled pain schedule (pain schedule II) in postoperative pain management increased patient empowerment.

Adaptive strategies used by surgical teams under pressure: an interview study among senior healthcare professionals in four major hospitals in the United Kingdom

BACKGROUND

Healthcare systems are operating under substantial pressures, and often simply cannot provide the standard of care they aspire to within the available resources. Organisations, managers, and individual clinicians make constant adaptations in response to these pressures, which are typically improvised, highly variable and not coordinated across clinical teams. The purpose of this study was to identify and describe the types of everyday pressures experienced by surgical teams and the adaptive strategies they use to respond to these pressures.

METHODS

We conducted interviews with 20 senior multidisciplinary healthcare professionals from surgical teams in four major hospitals in the United Kingdom. The interviews explored the types of everyday pressures staff were experiencing, the strategies they use to adapt, and how these strategies might be taught to others.

RESULTS

The primary pressures described by senior clinicians in surgery were increased numbers and complexity of patients alongside shortages in staff, theatre space and post-surgical beds. These pressures led to more difficult working conditions (e.g. high workloads) and problems with system functioning such as patient flow and cancellation of lists. Strategies for responding to these pressures were categorised into increasing or flexing resources, controlling and prioritising patient demand and strategies for managing the workload (scheduling for efficiency, communication and coordination, leadership, and teamwork strategies).

CONCLUSIONS

Teams are deploying a range of strategies and making adaptations to the way care is delivered. These findings could be used as the basis for training programmes for surgical teams to develop coordinated strategies for adapting under pressure and to assess the impact of different combinations of strategies on patient safety and surgical outcomes.

Patients' experiences of day surgery and recovery: A meta-ethnography

AIM

To explore and synthesise findings from qualitative studies on adult patients' experiences of day surgery and the processes of recovery.

BACKGROUND

There has been a shift in the practice of elective surgery, from inpatient to ambulatory treatment. Accordingly, more patients are undergoing day surgery and expected to care for themselves at home. To our knowledge, an updated metasynthesis on patients' experiences of day surgery across diverse contexts and continents is lacking.

DESIGN

Meta-ethnography.

METHODS

MEDLINE, EMBASE and CINAHL were systematically searched for qualitative research in English published between 2006 and 2023. Noblit and Hare's meta-ethnographic approach guided the synthesis of findings from 12 qualitative studies, and the eMERGe Reporting Guidance was used in the writing of this article.

RESULTS

Four themes were revealed: (1) requests for tailored information, (2) challenges of recognising and understanding postoperative symptoms, (3) being dependent on continuous professional and personal support and (4) calling for individual adaptation.

CONCLUSION

Our meta-ethnography indicates there is a need to improve information provision to better prepare patients for the processes of day surgery and recovery and promote their self-care abilities. Our findings highlight the importance of ensuring adequate levels of individualised care and support throughout the treatment process.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

To improve quality of care in day surgery practice, implementation of interventions to enhance information provision and promote self-care during recovery at home may be considered. Pre-admission appointments that incorporate provision of tailored information and assessment of the patients' individual needs of care and support, home conditions and access to assistance from family/friends can be recommended.

Showing Some Spine on Reddit: Neurosurgical Spinal Cord Conditions in Adults

BACKGROUND

A crowdsourcing resource used by patients with spinal disease has yet to be thoroughly investigated: the Internet. One such platform is Reddit, a virtual, anonymous meeting place. Analyzing how patients use spinal condition "subreddits" may enable a greater understanding of the questions that patients do not ask their doctors.

METHODS

Up to 50 posts in each subreddit's "hot" tab were retroactively screened from June 1, 2022. Posts written by those who had the condition or those interested in knowing more were included. Redditors self-identifying as younger than 18 years were excluded. Posts were subcategorized into questions related to social advice, health advice, providing health education or suggesting equipment, detailing their personal experience, or researchers recruiting patients for research.

RESULTS

Eight subreddits with 398 posts were identified related to spinal conditions, including scoliosis, herniated disks, spondylolisthesis, kyphosis, spina bifida, and degenerative disk disease, and 2 subreddits for spinal cord injury. Most patients sought out health advice (59.8%), specifically related to questions regarding their treatments (33.6%), followed by social advice (14.1%) relating to activities in their daily lives. Six posts from the spinal cord injury subreddits discussed the inability to achieve or maintain an erection.

DISCUSSION

Patients with spinal conditions congregate on Reddit. Analysis of subreddits allows for a more robust fund of knowledge, granting providers an opportunity to address the main health concerns of patients and caregivers.

Evaluation of remote digital postoperative wound monitoring in routine surgical practice

Remote digital postoperative wound monitoring provides an opportunity to strengthen postoperative community care and minimise the burden of surgical-site infection (SSI). This study aimed to pilot a remote digital postoperative wound monitoring service and evaluate the readiness for implementation in routine clinical practice. This was a single-arm pilot implementational study of remote digital postoperative wound monitoring across two tertiary care hospitals in the UK (IDEAL stage 2b, clinicaltrials.gov: NCT05069103). Adults undergoing abdominal surgery were recruited and received a smartphone-delivered wound assessment tool for 30-days postoperatively. Patients received 30-day postoperative follow-up, including the Telehealth Usability Questionnaire (TUQ). A thematic mixed-methods approach was used, according to the WHO framework for monitoring and evaluating digital health interventions. 200 patients were enroled, of whom 115 (57.5%) underwent emergency surgical procedures. Overall, the 30-day SSI rate was 16.5% (n = 33/200), with 72.7% (n = 24) diagnosed post-discharge. Usage of the intervention was 83.0% (n = 166/200), with subsequently 74.1% (n = 123/166) TUQ completion. There were no issues reported with feasibility of the technology, with the reliability (3.87, 95% CI: 3.73-4.00) and quality of the interface rated highly (4.18, 95%: 4.06-4.30). Patient acceptance was similarly high with regards to ease of use (4.51, 95% CI: 4.41-4.62), satisfaction (4.27, 95% CI: 4.13-4.41), and usefulness (4.07, 95% CI: 3.92-4.23). Despite the desire for more frequent and personalised interactions, the majority viewed the intervention as providing meaningful benefit over routine postoperative care. Remote digital postoperative wound monitoring successfully demonstrated readiness for implementation with regards to the technology, usability, and healthcare process improvement.

The Determination of Patient Learning Needs After Day Surgery: A Cross-Sectional Study

PURPOSE

This study was conducted to investigate the care perception and learning needs of patients undergoing day surgery.

DESIGN

A descriptive and cross-sectional model was used.

METHODS

The study was conducted with 234 patients who underwent day surgery in a general surgery clinic of a university hospital. Data were collected using a sociodemographic characteristics form, the Patient Perception of Hospital Experience with Nursing Scale (PPHEN) and the Patient Learning Needs Scale (PLNS).

FINDINGS

The PPHEN mean score was 67.99 ± 11.98 and the PLNS total score was 211.15 ± 38.49. The subscales showed that the highest scores were 38.47 ± 6.93 for activities of life, while the lowest score was 20.60 ± 4.23 for feelings related to condition. There was a statistically significant negative correlation in the PPHEN and PLNS subscales in terms of medications, activities of living, treatment, and complications. There was no statistically significant relationship between the demographic data of the patients (age, gender, and educational status).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that patients had high information needs and greater concerns, particularly about "activities of life." Nurses should be aware of the importance of identifying high learning needs to increase the level of satisfaction with nursing care in day surgery patients.

Effect of nurse-led telephone follow-up on postoperative symptoms and analgesics consumption after benign hysterectomy: a randomized, single-blinded, four-arm, controlled multicenter trial

PURPOSE

The study aimed to determine if planned telephone follow-up, especially when adding structured, oriented coaching, reduces the intensity of postoperative symptoms and decreases analgesics consumption after benign hysterectomy.

METHODS

A randomized, single-blinded, four-armed, controlled multicenter trial of 525 women scheduled for hysterectomy was conducted in 5 hospitals in the southeast health region of Sweden. The women were allocated 1:1:1:1 into four follow-up models: (A) no telephone follow-up (control group); (B) one planned, structured, telephone follow-up the day after discharge; (C) as B but with additional telephone follow-up once weekly for 6 weeks; and (D) as C but with oriented coaching telephone follow-up on all occasions. Postoperative symptoms were assessed using the Swedish Postoperative Symptoms Questionnaire. Analgesic consumption was registered. Unplanned telephone contacts and visits were registered during the 6 weeks of follow-up.

RESULTS

In total, 487 women completed the study. Neither pain intensity, nor symptom sum score or analgesic consumption differed between the intervention groups. Altogether, 224 (46.0%) women had unplanned telephone contacts and 203 (41.7%) had unplanned visits. Independent of intervention, the women with unplanned telephone contacts had higher pain intensity and symptom sum scores, particularly if an unplanned telephone contact was followed by a visit, or an unplanned visit was preceded by an unplanned telephone contact.

CONCLUSION

Telephone follow-up did not seem to affect recovery regarding symptoms or analgesic consumption after benign hysterectomy in an enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) setting. Unplanned telephone contacts and visits were associated with more postoperative symptoms, especially pain. Trial registration The study is registered in ClinicalTrial.gov: NCT01526668 retrospectively from January 27; 2012. Date of enrolment of first patient: October 11; 2011.

Using an E-Health Application for Post-operative Monitoring After Inguinal Hernia Repair: A Feasibility Study

BACKGROUND

E-Health care is already well established in some (non-) surgical specialties and is considered as a means of improving patient-centred care. Considering the demand of remote health care changes, especially in the COVID-19 pandemic, it is essential to investigate the feasibility of e-Health care within one of the most performed surgery procedures: inguinal hernia repair.

METHODS

A total of 60 patients used the e-Health application in this study compliant. Primary objectives were to investigate the accuracy of the "deviating post-operative course" alerting by the e-Health application. Secondary objectives included patient perspective and e-Health costs analysis.

RESULTS

Forty-four patients reported no deviation in the post-operative course using the e-Health application of which 93.2% (n = 41) was in concordance with the findings during standard follow-up. Within 16 patients reporting a deviating post-operative course, a true complication was found in 25% (n = 4). Based on in-hospital costs, a hypothetical e-Health follow-up scenario was more expensive (€59.5 per patient) than current standard follow-up care (€28.2 per patient). Usage of the e-Health application showed a high perceived overall patient satisfaction: 4.2 (on a Likert-scale of 1-5).

CONCLUSION

An e-Health application is a promising tool for identifying patients who require in-person or phone follow-up assessment. Patients' perspectives surveys revealed high potential and willingness of using this application. A hypothetical e-Health follow-up scenario showed to be more expensive compared to current standard follow-up. If the identified (dis)advantages can be improved, e-Health follow-up care appears to be promising in terms of safety and feasibility. Future studies can leverage on this study and further investigate the use of e-Health within the field of general surgery.

Comparison of total intravenous anesthesia and inhalation anesthesia on postoperative quality of recovery after laparoscopic hysterectomy: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Postoperative recovery is a complex process and affected mainly by factors from patients, surgery and anesthesia. Although we have all kinds of sedatives and hypnotics now, the selection of an ideal medication for general anesthesia is still challenging. In this study, we perform a protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis to compare the effect of propofol-based total intravenous anesthesia and sevoflurane-based inhalation anesthesia on postoperative quality of recovery in patients undergoing laparoscopic hysterectomy.

METHODS

The protocol of this review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022379485). Meanwhile, it will be reported follow the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocol. We will search 3 foreign electronic databases (Cochrane Library, Embase, Pubmed) and 4 Chinese electronic databases (China National Knowledge Infrastructure, WangFang Database, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database and Chinese Scientific Journal Database) to collect potential studies from their inceptions to December 2022. Only randomized controlled trials will be included. Two reviewers will independently perform study selection, data extraction and risk of bias assessment. Data synthesis and statistical analysis will be performed using the RevMan 5.4 (The Cochrane Collaboration, Copenhagen, Denmark) software.

RESULTS

The results of this systematic review and meta-analysis will be publicly available and published in a peer-reviewed journal.

CONCLUSION

This study may provide the evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of total intravenous anesthesia and inhalation anesthesia on postoperative quality of recovery after laparoscopic hysterectomy.

An endeavour for change and self-efficacy in transition: patient perspectives on postoperative recovery after bariatric surgery-a qualitative study

PURPOSE

Self-efficacy plays a role in the process of making lifestyle changes. After bariatric surgery, patients must adapt to several lifelong lifestyle changes. The aim of this study was to explore patients' experiences of recovery after bariatric surgery in those reporting low preoperative self-efficacy.

METHODS

This qualitative inductive interview study included 18 participants. Individual interviews were conducted approximately one year after the surgery. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

The analysis identified one theme, and five subthemes describing recovery after bariatric surgery. Participants described being at a crossroads before surgery and having to make a change. After surgery, they had to learn to handle their new situation, which included getting to know their new body, handling thoughts about themselves, and managing social relations. To enhance their situation, support and information were essential. Social relations, support, successes, and challenges influenced their self-efficacy, and thoughts about adopting lifestyle changes, maintaining motivation, and handling setbacks.

CONCLUSIONS

Recovery one year after bariatric surgery is an ongoing process that involves challenges encountered in lifestyle changes and physical and psychological transformations. Self-efficacy is not static and is influenced during the recovery process. Support and information are essential to enhance patient recovery after bariatric surgery.

A quantitative, multicentre, longitudinal study of patient experiences after gynaecological day surgery

AIM

The aim of this study was to explore patients' experiences after gynaecological day surgery one and 30 days postoperatively, as well as potential factors influencing these experiences.

DESIGN

The study had a multicentre, quantitative, longitudinal design.

METHODS

The study was conducted in three different hospitals' day surgical unit and included patients undergoing gynaecological surgery in general anaesthesia. We used a questionnaire including the European Quality of Life tool (EQ5D3L), the Quality-of-Recovery-15 questionnaire (QoR-15) and items relating to patient experiences, the first day (T1, n = 444) and 30 days (T2, n = 193) after surgery. Data were collected in the period March 2019 to March 2020.

RESULTS

Results show that patients mainly had positive experiences and ranged quality of recovery high, even though some areas needed improvement. Patient scores on the QoR-15 relating to their experiences 24 h postoperative were rated higher at T1 than at T2. Twenty per cent of the respondents experienced complications such as infection, haemorrhage and pain. About 1/5 of these contacted healthcare services, and three per cent was hospitalized. EQ5D score was the only factor that made an statistically significant impact on patients' experiences with quality of recovery (R² .169, F = 82.87). However, this effect was weak.

Is there a need for postoperative monitoring after open carpal tunnel release under WALANT?

Open carpal tunnel release (OCTR) under wide-awake local anesthesia with no tourniquet (WALANT) is a common outpatient procedure in hand surgery worldwide. In our clinic, WALANT has replaced intravenous regional anesthesia with a tourniquet (IVRA, or 'Bier block') as standard practice in OCTR. We therefore wondered what the optimal postoperative setting after OCTR under WALANT is. In this study, we compared patient satisfaction in two postoperative settings: immediate discharge (ID) after the operation, or short postoperative monitoring (PM) period in the outpatient clinic. Our hypothesis was that older patients would prefer a brief postoperative surveillance. We retrospectively analyzed patient satisfaction with the two settings using an adjusted questionnaire based on the standard Swiss grading system. We also assessed postoperative pain, satisfaction with the perioperative preparations and the reasons for unscheduled postoperative consultations, as secondary outcomes. One hundred and nine patients (ID, n = 63; PM, n = 46) were included in this single-center retrospective observational study. Patients were highly satisfied with both postoperative settings (Mean: ID 5.1/6; PM 5.5/6; p = 0.07). Even patients aged ≥80 years reported extremely high satisfaction with both settings (ID 5.6/6; PM 6.0/6; p = 0.08). Fifteen patients (ID, n = 11 [17.5%]; PM, n = 4 [8.7%], p = 0.72) unexpectedly consulted a doctor after surgery. OCTR under WALANT as an outpatient procedure with immediate discharge was associated with high patient satisfaction. However, detailed postoperative monitoring could contribute to the patient's well-being and education on how to cope with the postoperative course, and help with any questions.

Why does patients’ discharge delay after vertebral augmentation? A factor analysis of 1,442 patients

Objective

Vertebral augmentation techniques are widely used to treat osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs). Superior analgesic effects and shortened bed rest time means patients recover quickly, but prolonged unscheduled hospitalization can increase medical expenses and the risk of bed rest complications. The aim of this study was to investigate the reasons for prolonged hospitalization after vertebral augmentation surgery and to determine the relative risk factors.

Methods

A single-center retrospective study was conducted to enroll patients with OVCFs and accepted vertebral augmentation surgery from January 2017 to December 2017. Clinical information was collected from the Hospital Information System (HIS). The criterion of delayed discharge was postoperative hospitalization more than 3 days. Telephone interviews and medical history evaluations were conducted to confirm the exact reason for retention. The risk factors were analyzed by multiple logistic regression.

Results

Overall, 1,442 patients were included, and 191 (13.2%) stayed in the hospital for more than 3 days postoperatively. The reasons for delayed discharge were psychological factors (37.2%), residual pain (32.5%), cardiopulmonary complications (15.7%), nonspecific symptoms (8.4%), incision abnormalities (2.6%), thrombosis (2.1%), and postanesthesia reactions (1.6%). The multiple logistic model was significant; age (OR 1.028; 95% CI 1.009–1.046), preoperative stay (OR 1.192; 95% CI 1.095–1.298), operation type (OR 1.494; 95% CI 1.019–2.189), and the number of surgical segments (OR 2.238; 95% CI 1.512–3.312) showed statistical significance. In contrast, gender (P > 0.1) and chronic comorbidities (P > 0.1) were not predictors in this model.

Conclusion

Overall, 13.2% of OVCF patients who underwent vertebral augmentation surgery were not discharged within 3 days postoperatively, and several predictors were found. Preoperative communication and comprehensive evaluations are calling for more attention; physicians should adopt an appropriate medical process to enhance rehabilitation in geriatric orthopedics.

Patients' expectations and experiences of provided surgery-related patient education: A descriptive longitudinal study

AIMS

The aim of this study was to explore the educational expectations and experiences of surgical patients.

DESIGN

Prospective, longitudinal, descriptive and two-centre study. Data were collected with questionnaires at the hospital and 6 weeks and 6 months postsurgery.

METHODS

Patients undergoing elective surgery and hospitalized overnight from January to July 2016 answered questions about the content of received pre-operative and pre-discharge education, topics they wanted more information on, sources of information, satisfaction with and usefulness of the information and if their recovery was as expected.

RESULTS

Patients (N = 697, 49% male, mean age 64.1 [SD 12.6] years) perceived the provided education as useful and satisfactory but less so after discharge. Most common topics which they expected more education about were postoperative complications, pain management, fatigue, lack of stamina and expected recovery time. Most patients received information through face-to-face teaching (79.7%) and in writing (78.4%). Expectations on recovery were related to patients' satisfaction with the education and how useful they evaluated it.

Patient Perspectives on Recovery and Information Needs After Surgery: A Qualitative Study of Veterans

INTRODUCTION

Little is known about patients' postoperative emotional and social functioning and preferences for recovery settings. This qualitative study explores patients' perspectives on factors influencing postoperative recovery, including the proportion of time recovering at home (home time) and unmet information needs.

METHODS

Semistructured interviews were conducted between September and December 2020 with veteran patients aged 65 y or older who underwent surgery at a single hospital. A purposeful sampling strategy was used to identify patients with a broad representation of major operations and various amounts of home time. One-hour interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and anonymized for analysis. A rigorous team-based in-depth thematic analysis was performed. Validation techniques to enhance the quality and credibility of the study included triangulation, independent coding, and search for disconfirming evidence.

RESULTS

Twelve patients were interviewed (11 [91.7%] males; mean (standard deviation) age, 72.3 [4.8] y). Five factors that influenced the recovery process emerged: (1) professional support services, (2) informal caregiver support, (3) environment for recovery, (4) individual traits, and (5) physical and functional impairments. The analysis also elucidated four unmet information needs regarding recovery: (1) personalized and detailed information, (2) anticipated recovery time, (3) possible complications, and (4) comprehensive information about discharge location options.

CONCLUSIONS

The study demonstrated that patients recovering from surgery require wide-ranging levels of support to meet their unique needs and preferences. Patients value easy-to-understand and personalized information about recovery from providers. These findings may be helpful to develop strategies that better support patients in their postoperative recovery and post-acute care transition pathways.

Methods and timing in the assessment of postoperative recovery: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

There is no consensus about the type of instrument with which to assess postoperative recovery or the time points when assessments are most appropriate. It is also unclear whether instruments measure the four dimensions of postoperative recovery, that is physical, psychological, social, and habitual recovery. This scoping review had three objectives: (1) to identify and describe instruments used in clinical trials to assess postoperative recovery; (2) to determine how, when, and the number of times postoperative recovery was measured; and (3) to explore whether the four dimensions of postoperative recovery are represented in the identified instruments.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted in CINAHL, MEDLINE, and Web of Science. The search terms were related to three search strands: postoperative recovery, instrument, and clinical trials. The limits were English language and publication January 2010 to November 2021. In total, 5015 studies were identified.

RESULTS

A total of 198 studies were included in the results. We identified 20 instruments measuring postoperative recovery. Different versions of Quality of Recovery represented 81.8% of the included instruments. Postoperative recovery was often assessed at one time point (47.2%) and most often on postoperative day 1 (81.5%). Thirteen instruments had items covering all four dimensions of postoperative recovery.

CONCLUSIONS

Assessing recovery is important to evaluate and improve perioperative care. We emphasise the importance of choosing the right instrument for the concept studied and, if postoperative recovery is of interest, of assessing more than once. Ideally, instruments should include all four dimensions to cover the whole recovery process.

A qualitative study to understand patients’ experiences of their post-operative outcomes following forefoot surgery

Background

Hallux valgus and hallux rigidus are two common forefoot conditions causing deformity, pain, functional limitations, disability and deteriorating health status resulting in the requirement for surgery. Even when surgery is performed by an experienced surgeon, there remains a potential for patients to experience dissatisfaction and unfavourable outcomes. Adverse results are moderated by psychosocial variables; however, there is a paucity of qualitative research providing insight into how patients perceive their outcomes and the factors affecting their recovery.

Objective

The study aimed to qualitatively explore patients’ experiences of their surgical outcomes following forefoot surgery and factors associated with their recovery. Semi-structured interviews with 15 patients who received surgery for hallux valgus and/or hallux rigidus were conducted.

Results

Thematic analysis generated five themes: physical limitations, the psychosocial impact of surgical recovery, regaining normality, patients’ expectations for physical recovery and an altered body-image. Physical and psychosocial factors were inter-related. Patients experiencing problematic outcomes were functionally limited, had low mood and were unable to return to a normal life post-surgery. The women reported weight related issues and were limited in their footwear and clothing choices, negatively impacting on their self-esteem.

Conclusion

A forefoot condition is multifaceted, with patients experiencing a range of physical and psychological factors that may influence their outcomes and recovery from surgery. Patients need to be supported holistically with the use of a biopsychosocial model. A multidisciplinary approach to care and treatment within the forefoot surgical pathway with the inclusion of allied health professionals will enable to better support patients to enhance their outcomes.

Understanding the Meaning of Recovery to Patients Undergoing Abdominal Surgery

Importance

Postoperative recovery is difficult to define or measure. Research addressing interventions aimed to improve recovery after abdominal surgery often focuses on measures such as duration of hospital stay and complication rates. Although these clinical parameters are relevant, understanding patients' perspectives regarding postoperative recovery is fundamental to guiding patient-centered care.

Objective

To elucidate the meaning of recovery from the perspective of patients undergoing abdominal surgery.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This international qualitative study involved semistructured interviews with patients recovering from abdominal surgery from October 2016 to November 2018 in tertiary hospitals in 4 countries (Canada, Italy, Brazil, and Japan). A purposive maximal variation sampling method was used to ensure the recruitment of patients with varying demographic, clinical, and surgical characteristics. Data on race were not collected. Each interview lasted between 1 and 2 hours. Interviews were recorded and then transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were then analyzed using an inductive thematic analysis approach. Data analysis was conducted from July 2019 to September 2019.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The qualitative analysis revealed themes reflecting the meaning of recovery from the perspective of patients undergoing abdominal surgery.

Results

Thirty patients recovering from abdominal surgery were interviewed (15 [50%] female; mean [SD] age, 57 [18] years; 10 [33%] underwent major surgery; 16 [53%] underwent laparoscopic surgery). The interviews revealed that for patients undergoing abdominal surgery, the meaning of recovery embodied 5 overarching themes: (1) returning to habits and routines, (2) resolution of symptoms, (3) overcoming mental strains, (4) regaining independence, and (5) enjoying life. Themes associating the meaning of recovery to traditional parameters, such as earlier hospital discharge or absence of complications, were not identified in the interviews.

Conclusions and Relevance

This qualitative study suggests that the meaning of recovery from the perspective of patients undergoing abdominal surgery goes beyond traditional clinical parameters. The elements of recovery identified in this study should be taken into account in patient-surgeon discussions about recovery and when developing patient-centered strategies to improve postoperative outcomes.

The effects of a psycho-educational intervention to improve pain management after day surgery: A randomised clinical trial

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effectiveness of a psycho-educational intervention for shoulder and breast day surgery patients in decreasing pain intensity and pain interference with function and strengthening adherence with the analgesic regimen; and further to identify factors that influence average pain intensity and pain interference with function.

BACKGROUND

Pain is one of the most prevalent symptoms after day surgery. However, pain management is left to the patients and family, and interventions to help patients are needed.

DESIGN

Randomised clinical trial with an intervention (n = 101) and a usual care group (n = 119) using multiple measurements during 6 months postoperatively. The CONSORT checklist is used.

METHODS

Patients in the intervention group received a booklet about pain and pain management and coaching by research nurses on postoperative days 2, 3 and 7. Differences between groups were identified using the chi-squared analysis and t tests. Changes with time were identified using a linear mixed model with repeated measures.

RESULTS

After controlling for covariates, group differences at any time in average pain intensity and pain interference with function were not statistically significant. Changes over time within any one group in average pain intensity and pain interference with function were statistically significant and decreased with time. Higher levels of average pain intensity and pain interference over time were associated with shoulder surgery, female, younger, pain expectation, preoperative pain and poorer adherence.

CONCLUSIONS

No group differences related to the intervention were revealed, and preoperative teaching together with a pain management booklet and coaching may help to strengthen the intervention's effects. Further research on interventions directed towards pain management is needed.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

Day surgery patients' postoperative pain and pain management is not satisfactorily handled. To encourage and educate patients to use the prescribed analgesics in the immediate postoperative days may be necessary to enhance pain management.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01595035).

Swedish Web Version of the Quality of Recovery Scale Adapted for Patients Undergoing Local Anesthesia and Peripheral Nerve Blockade (SwQoR-LA): Prospective Psychometric Evaluation Study

BACKGROUND

The frequency and timing of assessing patient symptoms and discomfort during postoperative recovery are goals. Therefore, real-time recovery evaluation has been suggested to identify specific deficits in patient recovery.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to psychometrically evaluate the Swedish Web Version of the Quality of Recovery (SwQoR) Scale adapted for patients undergoing local and peripheral nerve block (SwQoR-LA).

METHODS

This was a secondary analysis of a psychometric evaluation of 107 patients aged ≥18 years undergoing day surgery under local or peripheral nerve block anesthesia at 4 different day surgery departments in Sweden. The SwQoR-LA, available through a mobile app called Recovery Assessment by Phone Points (RAPP), was completed daily on postoperative days 1-7.

RESULTS

Some evidence of construct validity was supported, and discriminant validity was found in 7 of 8 items related to general anesthesia. The internal consistency was acceptable (.87-.89), and the split-half reliability was 0.80-0.86. Cohen d effect size was 0.98, and the percentage of change from baseline was 43.4%. No floor nor ceiling effects were found.

CONCLUSIONS

The SwQoR-LA is valid, reliable, responsive, and clinically feasible for digital real-time recovery assessment of patient recovery to identify specific deficits in patient recovery and detect those patients who might benefit from a timely intervention.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02492191; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02492191.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

RR2-10.1136/bmjopen-2015-009901.

Pain Management and Education for Ambulatory Surgery: A Qualitative Study of Perioperative Nurses

BACKGROUND

Ambulatory surgery presents unique challenges regarding adequate pain management and education. Studies have documented issues with transfer of information and patient comfort. Our objective was to explore perioperative nurses' perspectives of current practices and challenges with pain management and education.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We used a qualitative descriptive design and conducted four focus group interviews, with 24 total participants from two perioperative areas of an academic medical center, using a standardized script. Using qualitative analysis software, two investigators reviewed the data and coded major themes and subthemes. The consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative studies guidelines were followed for reporting the data.

RESULTS

We identified four major themes impacting current perioperative pain management and education practices: communication among the perioperative care team, sources of nurses' frustrations in the perioperative setting, patient expectations for pain, and nurse-driven pain management and education. Nurses highlighted their work became easier with adequate information transfer and trust from physicians. Frustrations stemmed from surgeon, system, and patient factors. Nurses often use their clinical experience and judgment in managing patients throughout the perioperative period. Furthermore, nurses felt patients have limited pain education and stressed education throughout the surgical care pathway could improve overall care.

CONCLUSIONS

Perioperative pain management, assessment, and education practices are inconsistent, incomplete, and sources of frustrations according to participants. Participant experiences highlight the need for improved and standardized models. Patient pain education should use a multidisciplinary approach, beginning at the point of surgery scheduling and continuing through postoperative follow-up.

The Effect of Follow-Up Contact on Recovery After Benign Hysterectomy: A Randomized, Single-Blinded, Four-Arm, Controlled Multicenter Trial

Background: The objective of this trial was to analyze the effect of follow-up programs using standard follow-up protocol and structured coaching on recovery after hysterectomy in an enhanced recovery after surgery setting. Materials and Methods: A randomized, four-armed, single-blinded, controlled multicenter trial comprising 487 women was conducted at five hospitals in the southeast region of Sweden. The women were allocated (1:1:1:1) to Group A: no planned follow-up contact; Group B: a single, planned, structured, broadly kept, follow-up telephone contact with the research nurse the day after discharge; Group C: planned, structured, broadly kept follow-up telephone contact with the research nurse the day after discharge and then once weekly for 6 weeks; and Group D: as Group C, but with planned, structured, coaching telephone contact. Recovery was assessed by the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) questionnaires EuroQoL-5 Dimension with three levels (EQ-5D-3L) and Short-Form-Health Survey with 36 items (SF-36) and duration of sick leave. Results: Neither the recovery of HRQoL as measured by the EQ-5D-3L and the SF-36 nor the duration of sick leave (mean 26.8-28.1 days) differed significantly between the four intervention groups. Irrespective of mode of follow-up contact used, the women had recovered to their baseline EQ-5D-3L health index 4 weeks after surgery. The occurrence of unplanned telephone contact was significantly lower (by nearly 30%) in the women who had structured coaching. Conclusion: Follow-up contact, including coaching, did not seem to expedite the postoperative recovery in HRQoL or reduce the sick leave after hysterectomy, but the coaching seemed to reduce unplanned telephone contact with the health care services. ClinicalTrial.gov (NCT01526668).

A planned but vulnerable pathway towards self-management following day surgery. Orthopaedic patients' experiences

INTRODUCTION

An increasing share of surgical activity is organised as day surgery, thus giving more responsibility for care to patients and their next of kin.

PURPOSE

To obtain increased understanding of orthopaedic day surgery patients' experiences with self-management.

METHODS

A descriptive interview study. Eleven men and five women aged 18-78 years, who had undergone arthroscopic knee surgery in rural Norway participated in qualitative individual interviews during autumn 2018. Systematic text condensation was used as analysis strategy.

RESULTS

The main theme a planned but vulnerable pathway towards self-management and five subthemes were highlighted. The interviewees were satisfied with most aspects of the day surgery. However, challenges in adapting oral and written information to self-management postdischarge, a need for further self-management support at home, and strenuous travel increased the strain.

CONCLUSION

The written and oral information and support that was planned and provided by the hospital did not meet the patients' needs for self-management support postdischarge. The day surgery care pathway seemed to lack effective educational interventions for strengthening the patients' self-efficacy and control and to have potential for improvements.

Application of WeChat-assisted peri-operative care in children with congenital megacolon

AIM

This study explored the clinical effects of WeChat-based peri-operative care on parents of children with congenital megacolon.

METHODS

Participants were randomly divided into WeChat group and telephone group. This study explored parents' knowledge of the care of children with megacolon, the follow-up rate of children, post-operative defaecation function and complications.

RESULTS

WeChat group scored better in nursing knowledge than telephone group, and the difference was statistically significant. The lost follow-up rate in WeChat group was lower than that in telephone group, and the difference was statistically significant. Post-operative defaecation was also better in the WeChat group than in the phone group. Most complications in the phone group were significantly higher than those in the WeChat group.

CONCLUSION

Peri-operative care for parents of children with megacolon through WeChat can effectively enhance the level of parental care knowledge, improve defaecation, reduce the occurrence of certain complications and reduce lost follow-up.

A journey to a new stable state-further development of the postoperative recovery concept from day surgical perspective: a qualitative study

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to further develop the concept analysis by Allvin et al in 2007 and Lundmark et al in 2016 from the perspective of day-surgery patients. Also, to describe how patients experience postoperative recovery in relation to the identified dimensions and subdimensions and to interpret the findings in order to get a deeper understanding of the concept postoperative recovery.

DESIGN

Descriptive qualitative design with a theoretical thematic analysis.

SETTING

Six day-surgery departments in Sweden.

PARTICIPANTS

Thirty-eight adult participants who had undergone day surgery in Sweden. Participants were purposively selected.

RESULTS

Four dimensions-physical, psychological, social and habitual-were confirmed. A total of eight subdimensions were also confirmed, two from Allvin et al's study and six from Lundmark et al's study. Recovery included physical symptoms and challenges coping with and regaining control over symptoms and bodily functions. Both positive and negative emotions were present, and strategies on how to handle emotions and achieve well-being were established. Patients became dependent on others. They coped with and adapted to the recovery process and gradually stabilised, reaching a new stable state.

CONCLUSION

Postoperative recovery was described as a process with a clear starting point, and as a dynamic and individual process leading to an experience of a new stable state. The recovery process included physical symptoms, emotions and social and habitual consequences that challenges them. To follow-up and measure all four dimensions of postoperative recovery in order to support and understand the process of postoperative recovery is, therefore, recommended.

Effect of using the WeChat platform on the perioperative health education of parents of children who underwent transthoracic device closure of VSDs

Objective

To explore the effects of using the WeChat platform on the perioperative health education of parents of children who underwent transthoracic device closure of ventricular septal defects (VSDs).

Methods

Participants were divided into a WeChat group and a leaflet group. Responses to relevant questionnaires and clinical data were recorded and analyzed.

Results

Before the operation, the scores of the Caretaker Knowledge Questionnaire in the WeChat group were significantly higher than those in the leaflet group. The scores of PSQ-18 in the WeChat group were significantly higher than those in the leaflet group. All the children in the WeChat group were followed up 1 month after discharge, while four children in the leaflet group were lost to follow-up. The rate of attrition in the leaflet group was significantly higher than that in the WeChat group. For the postoperative complications, there was no significant difference between the two groups.

Conclusion

Perioperative health education for parents of children who undergo transthoracic device closure of VSDs through the WeChat platform can effectively enhance parents’ knowledge of care, improve parent satisfaction, which is an effective method to ensure convenient operation and reduce loss to follow-up.

Fast-track cardiac anaesthesia protocols: Is quality pushed to the edge?

Background

The quest for methods expediting rapid postoperative patient turnover has triggered implementation of various fast-track cardiac anaesthesia protocols. Using three different fast-track protocols in randomized controlled studies (RCT) conducted 2010-2016 we found minimal achievements in ventilation time together with actual and eligible length of stay in cardiac recovery unit. The comparable control group patients were evaluated in this retrospective post hoc analysis, for an association between above mentioned parameters and quality parameters, to assess whether the marginal gains have been at the expense of quality of recovery and patient comfort.

Method

90 control patients from three RCT with comparable demographic parameters and receiving standard department treatment were evaluated using time parameters and an objective/semi-objective Intensive Care Unit (ICU) score system (IDS score).

Results

Ventilation time was statistical significant lower in latest study (C) than the early (A) and intermedium (B) studies (A=293, B=261, C=205 minutes; P=0.04). The IDS was lower at extubation and all time points in the early study compared to other studies (P < 0.001;). The average IDS in latest study were the double of previous studies at the end of observations, and marginally above the acceptable score for discharge. The postoperative morphine requirement A=15.0, B=10.0 and C=26.5 mg; P=0.002) was statistical significant higher in the latest study compared to previous studies.

Conclusion

The implementation of strict fast-track protocols resulting in shorter ventilation time did not convert to earlier eligibility to discharge from the ICU. However, the quality of recovery appears challenged.

Life is about so much more: Patients' experiences of health, well-being, and recovery after operation of abdominal aortic aneurysm with open and endovascular treatment-A prospective study

Different surgical treatments for abdominal aortic aneurysm can lead to different perceptions of health and well-being. The aim of this study was to describe patients' well-being, sense of coherence (SOC), and experiences of surgery after open and endovascular treatment one month and one and 2 years after the procedure. Seventy six patients participated (40 open repair; 36 endovascular aneurysm repair). The study was conducted using the SOC questionnaire, and specific questions about patients' experiences of the surgical treatment and well-being. After 2 years, no patient regretted the operation or considered it to be the most difficult experience they had ever had. Twenty percent of the patients were worried about complications one month after the operation. Both groups experienced difficulty in returning to normal activity after surgery at one month. At one and 2 years after the surgery, patients in both groups stated that it was other things in life that affected their well-being. The endovascular aneurysm repair group reported a significant decrease in SOC from baseline until one year (P = .012) and 2 years (P = .033). The open repair group reported a significant decrease after one year (0.033). The operation did not affect patients' way of thinking about the disease. Patients in both groups stated that it was other circumstances in life that affected their well-being one and 2 years after the treatment, which could indicate that long-term follow-up would not be necessary from a patient perspective. The operation affects patients' well-being a short time after the operation.

Predictors for Early Physical Recovery for General and Orthopedic Patients after Major Surgery: Structural Equational Model Analyses

BACKGROUND

Attention to factors that may affect patients' ability to experience enhanced recovery after surgery is essential in planning for postoperative care.

AIMS

To create models of predefined pre,- peri-, and postoperative variables in order to analyze their impact on patients' physical recovery on postoperative days 1 and 2 after major orthopedic and general surgery.

DESIGN

An exploratory design with repeated measures was used, including 479 patients who had undergone orthopedic (289) or general surgery (190) at three hospitals.

METHODS

Pain, nausea, and level of physical ability were measured preoperatively and on postoperative days 1 and 2 by using the Numerical Rating Scale and items from the Postoperative Recovery Profile. Structural equation modeling was used to explore the impact of the predefined variables on patients' physical recovery.

RESULTS

The orthopedic group contained significantly more women and significantly more patients with pain and opioid use. Although the models showed good fit, "traditional" preoperative (pain, nausea, physical abilities, chronic pain, opioid use) and perioperative variables (anesthesia, length of surgery) constituted few (orthopedic) or no (general surgery) predictive properties for physical recovery. Postoperative average pain intensity, average nausea intensity, and physical ability explained physical recovery on day 1, and physical recovery on day 1 predicted physical recovery on day 2.

CONCLUSIONS

"Traditional" predictors had little effect on patients' postoperative physical recovery, while associations with common postoperative symptoms were shown. Further research is needed to explore additional variables affecting early physical recovery and to understand how soon patients are physically ready to return home.

Association Between Functional Health Literacy and Postoperative Recovery, Health Care Contacts, and Health-Related Quality of Life Among Patients Undergoing Day Surgery: Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Day surgery puts demands on the patients to manage their own recovery at home according to given instructions. Low health literacy levels are shown to be associated with poorer health outcomes.

Objective

To describe functional health literacy levels among patients in Sweden undergoing day surgery and to describe the association between functional health literacy (FHL) and health care contacts, quality of recovery (SwQoR), and health-related quality of life.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This observational study was part of a secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial of patients undergoing day surgery and was performed in multiple centers from October 2015 to July 2016 and included 704 patients.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary end point was SwQoR in the FHL groups 14 days after surgery. Secondary end points were health care contacts, EuroQol-visual analog scales, and the Short Form (36) Health Survey in the FHL groups.

Results

Of 704 patients (418 [59.4%] women; mean [SD] age with inadequate or problematic FHL levels, 47 [16] years and 49 [15.1], respectively), 427 (60.7%) reported sufficient FHL, 223 (31.7%) problematic FHL, and 54 (7.7%) inadequate FHL. The global score of SwQoR indicated poor recovery in both inadequate (37.4) and problematic (22.9) FHL. There was a statistically significant difference in the global score of SwQoR (SD) between inadequate (37.4 [34.7]) and sufficient FHL (17.7 [21.0]) (P < .001). The patients with inadequate or problematic FHL had a lower health-related quality of life than the patients with sufficient FHL in terms of EuroQol-visual analog scale scores (mean [SD], 73 [19.1], 73 [19.1], and 78 [17.4], respectively; P = .008), physical function (mean [SD], 72 [22.7], 75 [23.8], and 81 [21.9], respectively; P < .001), bodily pain (mean [SD], 51 [28.7], 53 [27.4], and 61 [27.0], respectively; P = .001), vitality (mean [SD], 50 [26.7], 56 [23.5], and 62 [25.4], respectively; P < .001), social functioning (mean [SD], 73 [28.2], 81 [21.8], and 84 [23.3], respectively; P = .004), mental health (mean [SD], 65 [25.4], 73 [21.2], and 77 [21.2], respectively; P < .001), and physical component summary (mean [SD], 41 [11.2], 42 [11.3], and 45 [10.1], respectively; P = .004). There were no differences between the FHL groups regarding health care contacts.

Conclusions and Relevance

Inadequate FHL in patients undergoing day surgery was associated with poorer postoperative recovery and a lower health-related quality of life. Health literacy is a relevant factor to consider for optimizing the postoperative recovery in patients undergoing day surgery.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02492191.

Low Preoperative Mental and Physical Health is Associated with Poorer Postoperative Recovery in Patients Undergoing Day Surgery: A Secondary Analysis from a Randomized Controlled Study

BACKGROUND

Day surgical procedures are increasing both in Sweden and internationally. Day surgery patients prepare for and handle their recovery on their own at home. The aim of this study was to investigate patients' preoperative mental and physical health and its association with the quality of their recovery after day surgery.

METHOD

This was a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial. Data were collected at four-day surgery units in Sweden. Health-related quality of life was measured using the Short Form 36 (SF-36) Health Survey, and postoperative recovery was assessed using the Swedish web version of the Quality of Recovery (SwQoR) scale.

RESULT

This study included 756-day surgery patients. A low, compared with a high, preoperative mental component score was associated with poorer recovery as shown by responses to 21/24 and 22/24 SwQoR items, respectively, on postoperative days (PODs) 7 and 14. A low compared with a high preoperative physical component score was associated with poorer recovery in 18/24 SwQoR items on POD 7 and 13/24 on POD 14.

CONCLUSION

A clear message from this study is for surgeons, anaesthetists and nurses to consider the fact that postoperative recovery largely depends on patients' preoperative mental and psychical status. A serious attempt must be made, as a part of the routine preoperative assessment, to assess and document not only the physical but also the mental status of patients undergoing anaesthesia and surgery.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT0249219.

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy follow-up: use of connected devices in the postoperative period

BACKGROUND

During the last decade, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has become the most performed bariatric procedure worldwide.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the feasibility of the use of connected devices in monitoring patients operated on by LSG and discharged 24 hours after surgery under the enhanced recovery after surgery protocol.

SETTING

Private hospital, France.

METHODS

This is a prospective pilot study designed to assess the risk and benefit of using connected devices in the postoperative follow-up of patients operated on by LSG. Patients operated on with LSG were discharged 24 hours after surgery, and vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, peripheral capillary oxygen saturation, and temperature were monitored via connected devices with data sent to an internet platform to make them immediately viewable by the surgeon.

RESULTS

The study population consisted of 82 women and 18 men. The mean body mass index was 43.4 kg/m², and the mean age was 39.6 years. Two patients were reoperated on for bleeding and, consequently, were excluded from the study. At postoperative day 8, 1 patient presented with tachycardia, fever, and mild abdominal discomfort. After the alert was received from the internet platform, the patient was immediately contacted, admitted to the ward, and promptly reoperated on. At 1 year after the surgery, the mean percentage of excess weight loss and total weight loss were 68.1 ± 18.1% and 36 ± 9.8 kg, respectively. For the patients not available for follow-up at the 1-year control, weight loss data were extrapolated from the internet platform. Globally, 92% of patients felt safe when they returned home, and 92% of patients would recommend this way of managing the postoperative period.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, this study shows that the early postoperative follow-up to an intervention such as LSG can be done at the patient's home under the monitoring of connected devices without a risk of increase in the rate of complications and rehospitalization. The role of the connected devices in the long-term postoperative follow-up seems promising.

Factors influencing day surgery patients' quality of postoperative recovery and satisfaction with recovery: a narrative review

The aim of healthcare services is to provide a high quality of care. One way to ensure that this aim has been fulfilled is to assess patients' satisfaction with their care. Although satisfaction is a complex concept, it is an important outcome in perioperative care. The objective of this paper is to discuss and reflect on factors that can affect patients' quality of postoperative recovery and satisfaction with recovery after day surgery. Involving patients in shared decision-making (SDM) and providing sufficient preoperative and postoperative information can improve their satisfaction. It is important to assess whether patients experience poor recovery, which can be both distressing and dissatisfying. We suggest that patients' age, sex, mental health status, and health literacy (HL) skills should be assessed preoperatively, since these factors seem to have a negative impact on patients' postoperative recovery. Identifying factors that have a negative impact on patients' quality of postoperative recovery and satisfaction with recovery after day surgery will assist healthcare professionals in supporting vulnerable patients, such as those with limited HL and poor mental health. Treating patients with respect and dignity and providing SDM can increase their quality of postoperative recovery and satisfaction with recovery.

The Effect of Text Messaging on Medication Adherence After Outpatient Knee Arthroscopy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

PURPOSE

The purpose of this project was to examine if text message reminders can increase postoperative adherence to treatment with acetaminophen among outpatients undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery.

DESIGN

A nonblinded randomized control trial.

METHODS

In this study, 187 patients were randomized to either an intervention group (text message reminders) or a control group (no text message reminders). On the fourth postoperative day, all patients received an electronic questionnaire concerning (1) adherence to treatment with acetaminophen (main outcome), (2) pain intensity, and (3) unscheduled health care contacts.

FINDINGS

Data were available from 134 patients (intervention group, n = 70; control group, n = 64). No significant differences between groups were found regarding the median number of missed acetaminophen doses (1 vs 2.5; P = .06), pain intensity at rest and during walking, or the number of unscheduled health care contacts (7 vs 4; P = .35).

CONCLUSIONS

A nonsignificant trend toward an increased medication adherence of acetaminophen was found.

Experiences of adult patients in discharge and recovery from day surgery: a qualitative systematic review protocol

REVIEW QUESTION/OBJECTIVE

The objective of this review is to critically appraise and synthesize the evidence on experiences of adult patients in discharge and recovery after day surgery.

Postoperative Recovery After General and Regional Anesthesia in Patients Undergoing Day Surgery: A Mixed Methods Study

PURPOSE

To investigate differences and describe experiences of postoperative recovery after day surgery between patients undergoing general anesthesia (GA) versus regional anesthesia (RA).

DESIGN

A mixed methods design.

METHODS

Day surgery patients (N = 401) were included. Postoperative recovery was assessed daily for 14 days using the Swedish Web Version of the Quality of Recovery questionnaire included in a mobile application. In addition, qualitative interviews were completed with 20 day surgery patients. Quantitative and qualitative data were first analyzed separately and then merged.

FINDINGS

There were significant differences in Swedish Web Version of the Quality of Recovery between GA and RA on days 1 to 13 (P < .05). These findings could not be confirmed in the qualitative findings, except for psychological issues as well as tiredness and fatigue. Unexpected issues contributed to a greater extent to the theme not feeling well. Pain in the surgical wound was overall the biggest problem.

CONCLUSIONS

There seems to be a poorer recovery after GA compared with RA. Tiredness or fatigue is present also after minor surgery in RA. Unexpected issues affect recovery negatively, and therefore should be addressed by health care.

Providing high-quality fundamental care for patients with acute abdominal pain

PURPOSE

Globally, acute abdominal pain (AAP) is one of the most common reasons for emergency admissions, yet little is known about how this patient group experiences the delivery of fundamental care across the acute care delivery chain. The purpose of this paper is to describe how patients with AAP experienced fundamental care across their acute care presentation, and to explicate the health professional behaviours, reported by patients, that contributed to their positive experiences.

DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH

A qualitative descriptive study, using repeated reflective interviews, was analysed thematically ( n=10 patients).

FINDINGS

Two themes were identified: developing genuine, caring relationships with health professionals and being informed about one's care. Patients reported that health professionals established genuine professional-patient relationships despite the busy care environment but perceived this environment as impeding information-provision. Patients were typically accepting of a lack of information, whereas poor professional-patient relationships were seen as inexcusable.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS

To provide positive fundamental care experiences for patients with AAP, health professionals should establish caring relationships with patients, such as by using humour, being attentive, and acknowledging patients' physical pain and emotional distress; and should inform patients about their care, including allowing patients to ask questions and taking time to answer those questions.

ORIGINALITY/VALUE

This is the first Australian study to explore the experiences of patients with AAP across the acute care delivery chain, using a novel method of repeated interviews, and to demonstrate how fundamental care can be delivered, in clinical practice, to ensure positive patient experiences.

Effects of using WeChat-assisted perioperative care instructions for parents of pediatric patients undergoing day surgery for herniorrhaphy

OBJECTIVE

This study examined the effects of WeChat-assisted perioperative instructions for parents whose children were to undergo herniorrhaphy.

METHOD

A randomized controlled trial was conducted in a day surgery center in China. Participants were randomly assigned to the intervention (WeChat) group (n = 209) and the control (Leaflet) group (n = 209). The primary outcomes of this study were parents' knowledge regarding hernia and rate of cancellation of children's surgery. The secondary outcomes were the rate of lost-to-follow-up and the rate of complications and adverse events during the seventh postoperative follow-up day.

RESULTS

There was a significant difference in the rate of cancelling the surgery and the mean knowledge score between the WeChat group and leaflet groups. The lost-to-follow-up rate was significantly lower in the WeChat group (0.54%) than in the leaflet group (3.66%). The incidence of postoperative complications were higher in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

WeChat-assisted perioperative care instructions enhanced parents' knowledge on perioperative instructions and promoted the preparation of their children for day surgery resulting in lower rate of cancelling the surgery.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

WeChat has the ability to expand health services outside the hospital confines and could be used as an important low-cost health educational medium in China.

Surgical patients' perspectives on nurses' education on post-operative care and follow up in Northern Ghana

Background

The purpose of the study was to explore surgical patients' experiences of discharge planning and home care in the Northern part of Ghana.

Methods

The study was conducted at a referral hospital located at the Northern part of Ghana. A qualitative explorative descriptive design was adopted for the study. Purposive sampling technique was used to recruit participants. Data was saturated with 15 participants aged between 23 and 65 years. All the interviews were audio-taped and transcribed verbatim. Data analysis was done using the processes of content analysis.

Results

Nurses educated surgical patients on discharge to avoid smoking, alcohol drinking, chewing cola nuts and strenuous exercise to promote healing and prevent complications. Patients were educated to keep their wound dry and clean. Patients were advised to eat nutritious food, vegetables and fruits and take their medications as prescribed. They were to report drug effects and come to the hospital for follow-up visits. Patients were urged to come for daily wound dressing at the outpatient department. On the contrary, some nurses did not educate patients on signs of wound healing or infection. Some nurses were rude to the patients during wound dressing. Nurses did not visit patients at home when they were discharged from the hospital.

Conclusions

The study showed that although nurses were able to educate discharged patients on how to manage their health at home, there is the need to improve communication and attitude to enhance care.