Efficiency and scheduling in the nonoperating room anesthesia suite: implications from patient satisfaction to increased revenue operating room a common (Dollars and Sense) approach

Operating Room Performance Optimization Metrics: a Systematic Review

Literature proposes numerous initiatives for optimization of the Operating Room (OR). Despite multiple suggested strategies for the optimization of workflow on the OR, its patients and (medical) staff, no uniform description of 'optimization' has been adopted. This makes it difficult to evaluate the proposed optimization strategies. In particular, the metrics used to quantify OR performance are diverse so that assessing the impact of suggested approaches is complex or even impossible. To secure a higher implementation success rate of optimisation strategies in practice we believe OR optimisation and its quantification should be further investigated. We aim to provide an inventory of the metrics and methods used to optimise the OR by the means of a structured literature study. We observe that several aspects of OR performance are unaddressed in literature, and no studies account for possible interactions between metrics of quality and efficiency. We conclude that a systems approach is needed to align metrics across different elements of OR performance, and that the wellbeing of healthcare professionals is underrepresented in current optimisation approaches.

Preoperative optimization of patients undergoing interventional procedures: infrastructure, logistics, and evidence-based medicine

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Patients presenting for non-operating room procedures are often 'too sick' for surgery and require specific anesthesia care in remote areas with logistical and scheduling challenges.

RECENT FINDINGS

Increased complexity and scope of minimally invasive procedures have expanded this practice. In addition, the concept of therapeutic options other than conventional surgery is gaining traction.

SUMMARY

Our review of recent literature confirms the complexity and supports the safety of providing care in non-operating room anesthesia locations. Standard preanesthesia assessments and principles apply to these areas.