OSE_1301_part2_Layout 1 1/11/13 10:56 AM Page 75
O P H T H A L M O L O G Y
developed to enhance case efficiencies. Running a successful cataract
service line in a busy hospital isn't easy — we're constantly fighting
facility layout challenges, overcoming staffing issues and balancing
OR time with other specialties. Here's an inside look at how we keep
patients moving safely and quickly from pre-op to PACU. If these factors can improve cataract efficiencies in our hospital setting, they'll
certainly do the same in centers more conducive to such a volumedependent specialty.
1. Patient communication
Fast-track patients must undergo pre-admission testing, so on the day
of surgery all of the prerequisites have been met, most of the paperwork has been filled out and we've addressed any issues that could
delay case start times.
The importance of physicians setting patients' expectations about
your fast-tracking process before they arrive for surgery cannot be
overstated. Cataract patients are minimally sedated (ours receive 1mg
of Versed) so nurses can focus on prepping patients for surgery instead
of getting bogged down recovering groggy patients and readying them
for discharge. You want patients mentally prepared for a fast surgery
almost as soon as they're positioned on the OR stretcher. There's no
way to fast-track uninformed patients who want to be heavily sedated;
the amount of anesthesia those patients request would lead to longer
post-op stays and, ultimately, grind your patient flow to a halt.
J A N U A R Y 2013 | O U T PAT I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E O N L I N E
7 5
