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M A R C H 2 0 1 6 | O U T P AT 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
specifically for them.
Define "open" versus "have available" on preference cards, and
make sure staff understand the difference. During our initial review of
the preference card process, we discovered staff members were open-
ing many items that weren't necessarily needed because of what was
noted on the cards.
Consider training a surgical nurse to audit perioperative documenta-
tion and ensure supply charges are captured accurately. The nurse can
also provide on-the-spot education if members of the surgical team mis-
takenly note the use of incorrect supplies. We revamped the position to
include some coding to help ensure charges match what was actually
used in the OR. You want accurate records, especially after all the effort
you put into updating the preference cards.
Stay up to date
Understand that keeping preference cards current is an ongoing
process. To get the most out of your cards, review them at least quarter-
ly. You might groan at the thought, but the initial review and update of
the entire collection of cards is the biggest challenge. Subsequent
reviews will be easier and faster if you're constantly staying on top of
the process.
OSM
Ms. Dockery (treena.dockery@uchealth.org) is project manager of periopera-
tive services at University of Colorado Health.
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