Cross-training staff solves competency and engagement puzzle

High labor costs, surgeon dissatisfaction, high staff turnover, and low staff competency are problems that dog many OR leaders at some point in their careers. When managers at the Stanford University Medical Center Main OR in Stanford, California, found themselves facing all of these problems at once, they knew something had to change. They began taking steps to correct course, and although changes are still ongoing, they have found ways to increase staff competency and satisfaction—which have, in turn, helped resolve some of the other problems.