Streamlining the perioperative process

Health-care reform and capitated reimbursements have and will continue to influence decreased lengths of hospital stay and continued efficiency in perioperative nursing practice. Collaborative efforts by perioperative nurses, anesthesia care providers, and surgical staff should continue to emphasize concise documentation processes as well as comprehensive assessment and evaluation phases to prepare patients and families for earlier discharge and recovery at home. The objective of new documentation practices and streamlining perioperative preparation processes is to eliminate the duplication of information, meet standards set by professional organizations, and provide quality, efficient care along with patient and family satisfaction.