Bridging the gap between Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) pathway and nursing practice in neuro-spinal surgery in Vietnam: A perspective

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) is an important concept in perioperative care, including neuro-spinal surgery. In Vietnam, the nursing role in ERAS pathway is widely recognised as a key component, but still lacks clear role clarity, accountability, and measurable contribution. In this article, the authors discuss the current gap in role definition and evaluation of nurse’s contribution within ERAS pathway for neuro-spinal surgery. The authors also propose a framework that positions nurses as coordinators and leaders of some specific domains, including patient education, perioperative nutrition, pain assessment, postoperative ambulation, and wound care. Finally, the authors propose mandatory structured ERAS audit system and specific nursing indicators alongside traditional clinical outcomes in future Vietnamese ERAS nursing impact literatures.