Nursing aspects of outpatient surgery

The increase in outpatient care presents a unique opportunity for health team members and particularly nursing practitioners to participate in cost-saving practices. The ambulatory surgery setting requires participation in all aspects of patient care, from admission through discharge and provides a comprehensive environment for the practice of perioperative nursing. It also presents a unique challenge to encourage the patient to become a more active participant in the regimen of care, encouraging activities that will assist in goal setting and evaluation of care.