SAVE TIME Assigning surgeons' pre-op bays and getting cases ready the day before increases efficiency.

SIMPLE SET-UP
Assign Each Doc a Numbered Cubicle

In our busy 4-OR center, we assign each surgeon a numbered cubicle in pre-op so she always knows where her next patient is. We try to match the pre-op bay number to each OR — so doctors' assignments stay the same — which limits confusion among surgeons and anesthesiologists. To make patient flow even easier, we set up the pre-op bed table ahead of time with an IV start kit, a name card with the surgeon's name and a laminated pre-op safe surgery checklist. And as you can see in the photo on the right, our pre-op RNs are also tasked each afternoon with setting up stretchers with a gown, booties, head cover and belonging bag for the next day's first patients. It's a simple step, but it makes a big difference in our efficiency.

Vicki V. Schultz, RN, CASC
Texas Health Women's Specialty Surgery Center
Dallas, Texas
[email protected]