Objective

To investigate overall patient satisfaction and the relationship between specific facets of patient satisfaction outcome following the care provision of patients undergoing Enhanced Recovery After Thoracic Surgery (ERAS).

Methods

Thoracic patients were surveyed regarding satisfaction with their care on an ERAS pathway. A questionnaire was used to quantitatively assess patient satisfaction. A descriptive statistical approach was used to analyse the results. Patient satisfaction scores were used to measure the patient reported experience of the key facets of care along with length of stay. Key factors contributing to patient satisfaction with ERAS were identified along with areas for improvement in the service provision.

Results

48 out 110 patients completed the questionnaire (44%). Overall patient satisfaction was rated at 95.4%. Lower scoring questions were those around use and engagement in the patient diary. Completion of booklet scored 48% and following the pathway within the booklet scored 79%. The results demonstrate that despite patients finding the booklet useful (87.5%), engagement was low (engagement = completion and following the pathway).

Conclusion

This survey demonstrated that overall patient satisfaction with Thoracic ERAS scored highly. Despite this score, key areas were identified for improvement; patient engagement in the pathway and booklet and communication. Education and patient engagement are key element of ERAS. Engagement was found to poorer in those over 65 years. This data can inform practice and guide areas for improvement within the ERAS pathway.