Assessing Timing of Intravenous-to-Oral Analgesic Transition in Neu rosurgical Patients at the Largest Cancer Hospital in a Low- and Mid dle-Income Country: Impact on Length of Hospital Stay
Abstract:
Background: Early transition from intravenous (IV) to oral analgesics in postoperative care has been shown to reduce hospital stay and healthcare costs without compromising analgesic efficacy or patient safety. Objective: To evaluate current practices regarding the timing of IV-to-oral analgesic transition in postoperative neurosurgical patients, assess its impact on hospital stay, and identify opportunities for improvement through staff education and protocol development. Methods: A retrospective audit was conducted on all postoperative neurosurgical patients admitted between Octo ber 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, at the largest cancer hospital in a low- and middle-income country. Patients with multiple admissions or repeat surgeries during the audit period were excluded. Data collected included the number of patients switched to oral analgesics within 24 hours postoperatively and the total number of postoper ative neurosurgical admissions. Results: The average time from surgery to oral analgesic transition was 115.9 hours. Following the switch, the average duration of hospital stay was 14.7 hours. Conclusion: The audit revealed a delayed transition from IV to oral analgesia compared to international bench marks. Earlier transition may contribute to reduced hospital stay, enhanced patient recovery, and optimized re source utilization.
