DISCHARGE AFTER COLORECTAL CANCER SURGERY 1: AN OVERVIEW

Taylor, Claire PhD, MSc, PGCAP, BN, RGN

Claire Taylor, PhD, MSc, PGCAP, BN, RGN, is lecturer in gastrointestinal nursing, Burdett Institute of Gastrointestinal Nursing, St Mark's Hospital, Harrow, Middlesex.

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THIS ARTICLE HAS BEEN DOUBLE-BLIND PEER-REVIEWED

Nursing Times 104(28):p 28-29, July 15, 2008.

ABSTRACT

Taylor, C. (2008) Discharge after colorectal cancer surgery 1: an overview. Nursing Times; 104: 28, 28-29. This two-part unit focuses on preparing patients for hospital discharge following surgery for colorectal cancer. This first part explores the rationale for different surgical procedures. It also discusses common side-effects and the impact treatment has on patients.

Nurses play an important role in preparing patients for discharge from hospital following surgery for colorectal cancer.

The time available to plan and provide good discharge care has reduced, since inpatient stays following such surgery are shorter thanks to laparoscopic surgery and the Enhanced Recovery Programme (ERP). Therefore it is necessary to be more proactive in assessing the nursing care that patients might need.

Discharge care involves monitoring, supporting and promoting patients' postoperative recovery and preparing them for what to expect after colorectal cancer surgery. Patients' readiness to self-care and their confidence and ability to do so are equally as important as their medical fitness for discharge.