Same day surgery: results of a patient satisfaction survey

Same day surgery patients have unique needs, distinct from those of traditional long-stay inpatients and outpatients. Their postoperative needs at home are central to achieving complete recovery and ensuring there are no unplanned readmissions to hospital. In a quality improvement project at Royal Perth Hospital, a patient satisfaction questionnaire survey has attempted to measure the clinical outcome of same day surgery patients and whether this is influenced by factors such as the specific information expectations and needs of these patients, including their postoperative information needs and expectations. Survey results highlight that information delivery is crucial to same day surgery patients, not only in preparing for their procedure, but also in planning for, and coping with, their postoperative course. Information delivery is a principal factor influencing both clinical outcome and patient satisfaction with hospital service. Improving information delivery can contribute greatly to the quality and effectiveness of same day surgery services and ensure the continuum of care.