Eras (Enhanced Recovery after Surgery)
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 10, 2025.
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 based on the type of surgery and your medical history. 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. You may need certain tests before your surgery. 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 or tests needed before 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. Healthcare providers will give you specific instructions for blood sugar management if you have diabetes.
- 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.
- Vital sign monitoring will be done throughout the surgery. Healthcare providers will make sure your body temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate and rhythm are stable. You may need closer monitoring if you have a heart condition.
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
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Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.