Multiple changes, multiple opportunities in the ambulatory surgery department.
As one facility that was restructured and purchased, the Ambulatory Surgery Department moved through changes at a very rapid pace. The waves of change began with preoperative testing requirements and expansion of the nurse's role in accurate and appropriate testing decisions. Cross-training for radiology, pain management, infusion services, and oncology services were also incorporated. As the department became a multi-faceted area of patient care, nursing staff met the challenge of change and grew both educationally and professionally. This article identifies areas of departmental and professional opportunity and outlines the development of protocols to meet each challenge.
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