Abstract:
Background: ERAS is a multidisciplinary approach designed to optimize surgical recovery
through evidence-based practices. Despite its proven benefits in reducing postoperative
complications and hospital stays, there is limited understanding of ERAS among healthcare
professionals in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), particularly in Ethiopia. This study
seeks to identify gaps in KAP that may hinder the effective implementation of ERAS.
Objectives: To evaluate the KAP of Enhanced Recovery after Surgery among Health Care
Professionals at Jimma Medical Center concerning ERAS protocols.
Methods: A cross-sectional study design was employed from November to December 2024. The
study population was including all anesthetists, senior surgeons, surgery residents, and nurses
working in surgical wards at Jimma Medical Center. A structured questionnaire was developed to
collect data on demographics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to ERAS. Data analysis
was conducted using SPSS version 26, employing descriptive statistics. Bivariate and multivariate
logistic regression analyses was performed to identify factors associated with dependent variable.
Result: A total of 137 health care providers were included as study participants with a response
rate of 94.4%. 63.5% (n=87) demonstrated good knowledge, 56.9% (n=78) held a positive
attitude, and 52.6% (72) reported good practice toward enhanced recovery after surgery. Work
experience, profession and training were significantly associated with knowledge toward
enhanced recovery after surgery. Work experiences had positive attitude while being surgeons had
negative attitude regarding enhanced recovery after surgery. Regarding practice of enhanced
recovery after surgery, being surgeons and no training had poor practice.
Conclusion and Recommendation: Overall knowledge, attitude and practice of health care
providers toward enhanced recovery after surgery were good. Education, work experience, and
on-the-job training play vital roles in determining health care providers' knowledge attitudes and
practice towards enhanced recovery after surgery protocols. Health care providers should
implement and adhere for enhanced recovery after surgery protocol.
