Postoperative Care Practices for Colorectal Surgery Patients at Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital

Colorectal surgery carries a high risk of postoperative complications including anastomotic leak, ileus, and infection, necessitating structured postoperative management pathways. This study evaluates current postoperative care practices for colorectal surgery patients at Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital (OAUTH), Ile-Ife, Osun State, South West Nigeria, from 2021 to 2023. A mixed methods design combining retrospective record review (n=75) and key informant interviews with 15 surgical nurses and 8 surgical consultants was employed. Postoperative outcomes, compliance with nutritional protocols, stoma care standards, drain management, and follow-up scheduling were assessed. Findings reveal inconsistencies in the timing of nasogastric tube removal, with prolonged nasogastric drainage persisting beyond 48 hours in 44% of patients without clear clinical indication. Stoma education was delivered to fewer than half of patients who received a colostomy, and formal stoma care nursing was unavailable. Nutritional supplementation was rarely prescribed despite documented malnutrition in 29% of patients. The study recommends establishment of a colorectal care pathway team, introduction of dedicated stoma nurse positions, and structured postoperative nutrition protocols at OAUTH. Disseminating these recommendations across South West colorectal surgery centers would improve recovery outcomes and patient quality of life. Keywords: colorectal surgery, postoperative care, stoma, nutrition, OAUTH