Eras (Enhanced Recovery after Surgery)
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.
What do I need to know about enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS)?
ERAS is a plan to help improve recovery and decrease problems after surgery. Healthcare providers will create an ERAS plan for you depending on the type of surgery. The plan helps providers take care of you before, during, and after surgery.
What is the ERAS plan before surgery?
Your plan may change if you have a high risk for problems after surgery or have certain conditions. The following are general guidelines:
- Education or counseling about your surgery and how to prepare will be given. Healthcare providers will explain what will happen during surgery and what to expect during recovery. Tell a provider if you have any questions or concerns about your surgery.
- Rehabilitation (rehab) , such as cardiac or pulmonary rehab, may be recommended before your surgery. Rehab helps improve your strength.
- Nutrition instructions will help keep your blood sugar level stable and prevent stress on your body. You may be told not to eat or drink 6 hours before your surgery. You may instead be able to eat or drink clear liquids for up to 2 hours before surgery.
- Medicine or compression stockings may be used to prevent a blood clot. You may be given antibiotics to prevent a bacterial infection.
What is the ERAS plan during surgery?
- Appropriate anesthesia will be discussed with you. The right anesthesia helps decrease your risk for complications from anesthesia medicines. General anesthesia keeps you asleep and free from pain during surgery. Local or regional anesthesia numbs a body area. With this type you may feel pressure or pushing, but you should not feel pain.
- IV fluids or blood products may be given to help prevent low blood pressure.
- Medicines may be given during surgery to prevent pain and nausea while you recover.
What is the ERAS plan after surgery?
- Early liquids and nutrition after surgery help you recover and decreases nausea. Healthcare providers will tell you when it is okay for you to eat or drink.
- Movement such as getting out of bed or walking helps prevent blood clots. Do not get up until healthcare providers say it is okay. Ask a provider for help before you get out of bed.
Care Agreement
You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
