Early oral feeding after colorectal surgery: A mixed methods study of knowledge translation.

Aim: Evidence-based guidelines recommend early oral feeding (EOF) as prescription of an unrestricted diet within 24 hours after colorectal surgery. The present study aimed to understand local postoperative feeding practices after colorectal surgery; identify barriers to EOF implementation; select, tailor and implement stakeholder engagement strategies to facilitate EOF uptake; and evaluate changes to practice.

Methods: A longitudinal, mixed methods study was undertaken, guided by the knowledge-to-action framework.