Criteria to determine readiness for hospital discharge following colorectal surgery: An international consensus using the delphi technique

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Standardized discharge criteria are considered valuable to reduce the risk of premature discharge and avoid unnecessary hospital stays. The most appropriate criteria to indicate readiness for discharge after colorectal surgery are unknown. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to achieve an international consensus on hospital discharge criteria for patients undergoing colorectal surgery. DESIGN: Fifteen experts from different countries participated in a 3-round Delphi process. In round 1, experts determined which criteria best indicate readiness for discharge and described specific end points for each criterion. In rounds 2 and 3, experts rated their agreement with the use of a 5-p..