Presentation
Pre-Op Pitfalls: Investigating Delays in Surgical Start Times at A Large Academic Medical Center
SessionPoster Session 1
DescriptionIntroduction
This study investigates an overlooked contributor to operating room (OR) delays: the pre-operative (pre-op) phase. As a critical step requiring multi-divisional coordination and clearance, identifying breakdowns during the pre-op process can inform efforts to streamline surgical care for all stakeholders.
Background
Pre-op delays can create bottlenecks, added costs, lower patient satisfaction, and workflow disruptions for staff. While previous research has explored inefficient OR turnover due to intraoperative delays, less attention has been paid to the pre-op phase.
Methods
Researchers shadowed nurses through pre-op care for first-start cases at a large academic medical center to track timing and workflow. Focus groups during which staff from different roles discussed their routines, identified challenges, and suggested improvements were also conducted.
Results
9 of the 12 observed cases were delayed, with average delays on each OR floor (n=3) ranging from 8-24 minutes. Delays were attributed to poor team coordination, electronic health system issues, staffing shortages, and patient factors.
Conclusion
Improving OR turnover rates requires strategic staffing, reliable electronic health systems, and effective team coordination during pre-op processes. The variability in workflows and challenges of different OR floors of the same healthcare center highlights the need for tailored interventions rather than a uniform approach.
This study investigates an overlooked contributor to operating room (OR) delays: the pre-operative (pre-op) phase. As a critical step requiring multi-divisional coordination and clearance, identifying breakdowns during the pre-op process can inform efforts to streamline surgical care for all stakeholders.
Background
Pre-op delays can create bottlenecks, added costs, lower patient satisfaction, and workflow disruptions for staff. While previous research has explored inefficient OR turnover due to intraoperative delays, less attention has been paid to the pre-op phase.
Methods
Researchers shadowed nurses through pre-op care for first-start cases at a large academic medical center to track timing and workflow. Focus groups during which staff from different roles discussed their routines, identified challenges, and suggested improvements were also conducted.
Results
9 of the 12 observed cases were delayed, with average delays on each OR floor (n=3) ranging from 8-24 minutes. Delays were attributed to poor team coordination, electronic health system issues, staffing shortages, and patient factors.
Conclusion
Improving OR turnover rates requires strategic staffing, reliable electronic health systems, and effective team coordination during pre-op processes. The variability in workflows and challenges of different OR floors of the same healthcare center highlights the need for tailored interventions rather than a uniform approach.
Event Type
Poster
TimeTuesday, October 14th5:30pm - 6:30pm CDT
LocationRiverside East
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