This first in a two-part unit outlines background on the enhanced recovery pathway in colorectal surgery. Enhanced recovery is used in colorectal surgery to optimise care for patients before, during and after their operations. It can be used in other specialties. The pathway includes a number of activities that nurses should explain to patients so they understand these principles. There are some major changes from traditional post-operative care after colorectal surgery. The most obvious one is that fluids and food are allowed and, in fact, encouraged after surgery on the same day as the operation. In addition, early mobilisation by sitting in a chair on the evening after surgery and walking the following day are recommended if a patient's condition allows.