Developing implementation strategies to adopt Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS®) guidelines

Background: Strong implementation strategies are critical to the success of Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS (R)) guidelines, though little documentation exists on effective strategies, especially in complex clinical situations and unfamiliar contexts. This study outlines the process taken to adopt a novel neonatal ERAS (R) guideline. Methods: The implementation strategy was approached in a multi-pronged, concurrent but asynchronous fashion. Between September 2019 and January 2020, healthcare providers from various disciplines and different specialties as well as parents participated in the strategy. Multidisciplinary teams were created to consider existing literature and local contexts including potential facilitators and/or barriers. Task forces worked collaboratively to develop new care pathways. An audit system was developed to record outcomes and elicit feedback for revision. Results: 32 healthcare providers representing 9 disciplines and 5 specialties as well as 8 parents participated. Care pathways and resources were created. Elements recommended for a successful implementation strategy included identification of champions, multidisciplinary stakeholder involvement, consideration of local contexts and insights, patient/family engagement, education, and creation of an audit system. Conclusion: A multidisciplinary and structured process following principles of implementation science was used to develop an effective implementation strategy for initiating ERAS (R) guidelines.