Effect of Clinical Pathway Application on Health Outcomes of Patients Undergoing Colorectal Surgery

Abstract

Colorectal cancer is a disease with a major worldwide burden. Care for colorectal cancer patients undergoing surgery tends to be suitable for clinical pathway development because of high-cost of the procedure and the predictable course of events and complications that may occur during hospitalization. Objective: Determine the effect of clinical pathway application on health outcomes of patients undergoing colorectal surgery. Setting: The study was conducted in the Colon and Rectal Surgical Unit at Alexandria Main University Hospital. Subjects: A convenience sample of 50 adult patients with colon or rectal cancer or both undergoing colorectal surgery was included. They were equally and randomly recruited into two groups: a control group and a study 25 each. Tools: Three tools were used for data collection. I: Perioperative Colorectal Surgery Patient Assessment. II: Clinical Pathway Variance Observational Checklist, and III: Colorectal Surgical Patient's Satisfaction tool. Results: There were statistical significant differences between control and study group with whom the (clinical pathway was implemented) as they showed better post colorectal outcomes in relation to wound healing, pain control, achieving criteria for discharge. Conclusion: Patients undergoing colorectal surgery on whom the clinical pathway was applied exhibited improved postoperative outcomes than those on whom it was not. Recommendations: It is recommended that colorectal surgery clinical pathway be used rather than the traditional delivery of care.