Standardization of operative start times for non‐emergent cardiac surgical procedures

Abstract

Objective: Late surgical start times have been associated with a multitude of adverse consequences such as increased cost, delay in treatment, increase in medical errors,

On time surgery start: Is standardization the answer?

“…The quality improvement study by Burton and colleagues highlighted adverse consequences of late start times including increased cost, delay in treatment, increase in medical errors, and patient complications. 2 Following the implementation of their multipronged intervention strategy, they were able to reduce late start times by 20% and found that adherence to on-time surgical start improved operating room (OR) efficiency, decreased cost, and improved employee satisfaction. Specifically, OR staff overtime and total time in the OR costs were reduced.…”