Improving Preoperative Throughput

Preoperative throughput is an important piece in achieving the perioperative goal for first case on time starts. An inefficient preoperative (preop) department can delay surgery starts and impact the patient flow throughout the day. Research is abundant in applying lean six sigma principles in the operating room, however there are minimal studies that specifically apply these tools in the preop. The perioperative process includes the preop, operating room, and the postoperative departments. All areas have to run like a well-oiled machine to improve performance and achieve positive outcomes. This article will discuss the implementation of new practices in preop along with the benefits and obstacles identified during the pilot study.