Introduction Perceived self-efficacy may be associated with patient outcomes on the Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS) programme. This feasibility study investigates the association between level of perceived self-efficacy and length of stay in hospital (LOSH) (a measure of success on the ERAS programme). The ERAS programme is a multi-model approach to surgical care which optimises patient physical condition by minimising the stress imposed on the body pre-, intra- and post-operatively.

Primary outcome measure Is there statistical significance in the relationship between self-efficacy score and LOSH after colorectal surgery on an ERAS programme?

Secondary outcome measure Is there statistical significance in the relationship between the component parts of self-efficacy measured (recovery locus of control, health anxiety and value and optimism) and LOSH?

Method Single-centre, quantitative. Study questionnaire was an amalgamation of 5 validated questionnaires: General Self-efficacy scale, Recovery Locus of Control, Whiteley Index, Health Value and Life Orientation Test. Non-random convenience sampling was used to recruit continuously over 6 months (March-Sept 2014). Questionnaire completed twice by each participant: pre-operatively and post-operatively giving an overall self-efficacy score which was correlated against LOSH. Results were analysed using Pearson–s Correlation.

Results Study sample N=30. There was a slight positive correlation between the primary variables but this carried no statistical significance (p = 0.832). No statistical significance found in the associations between LOSH and the secondary variables. The most notable correlation was found between the Family and Friend Test for patient satisfaction and LOSH.

Conclusion Previous research has found self-efficacy positively impacts recovery in a variety long-term health conditions. It is possible that with a greater sample size a similar relationship could be demonstrated with ERAS patients. Finding ways to optimise psychological state prior to major surgery in terms of an individual–s self-efficacy, could have dramatic effects in reducing LOSH and improving overall patient satisfaction.

The present study has led the way into exploring a new research relationship. This feasibility study should be the foundation for a larger scale, randomised study.

Disclosure of interest None Declared.