Background: Nearly three-fourths of the 750,000 Americans living with an ostomy will go on to experience complications upon discharge from the hospital. However, research has shown that the utilization of an enhanced recovery pathway (ERAS) decreases stress and results in fewer complications and shorter hospital stays following surgery. Thus, nurses trained on ERAS programs have the skills to adapt those programs to care for ostomy patients.

Objectives: The purpose of this evidence-based practice presentation is to determine the effect of an educational in-service on surgical nurses' self-confidence in providing ostomy care and management to a postoperative colorectal surgical patient.

Methods: Based on the literature, patients receiving ERAS protocols had a 13% decrease in complications following surgery. A questionnaire adapted from The Survey of Ostomy Care will assess nurses’ self-confidence and knowledge of providing care for ostomies pre- and post-educational intervention. A poster presentation will address ERAS pathways, including practical stoma care, pain control, diet, community resources, and education on leading a healthy lifestyle.

Results: The primary outcome following the educational intervention is an increase in the nurses' knowledge of the ERAS protocol and tailoring it to stoma patients. Secondary outcomes include improving patient care, patient education on caring for their ostomy, accelerating recovery, and reducing the length of stay following surgery.

Conclusion: Research identified that nurses' confidence in delivering ostomy care was higher with training and experience. Nurses trained on ERAS programs can provide adequate education to patients, maintain continuity of care, increase reimbursement to the hospital, and optimize patient’s self-care.