Getting patients home quickly–and safely

Time is valuable in ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs). Patients need to be moved through the facility as quickly-and safely-as possible. How can you balance time with safety to achieve success in your ASC? Simply be sure your policies and procedures reflect evidence-based practice guidelines for addressing common factors that contribute to delayed discharge: pain, postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), lack of hydration, and lack of a patient escort. Add in a patient discharge criteria system and professional collaboration, and you'll set yourself up for safety and efficiency.