Nurse-Led Anaesthetic Discharge in Post Anaesthesia Care Unit in Perioperative Settings
Training ＆ Education
Workforce Transformation
National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals
National Healthcare Group
31 December 2024
Train and empower nurses to independently discharge post-surgery patients from PACU, reducing anaesthetist workload. NLAD successfully reduced PACU discharge delays and optimized manpower use.
Year Submitted: 2024
Published Date: 31 December 2024
Tags: Training ＆ Education, Workforce Transformation, Assessment, Job Redesign, Upskilling, Professional Development, Education Platform, Virtual Learning Platform
About this Content
Aims
Train and empower nurses to independently discharge post-surgery patients from PACU, reducing anaesthetist workload.
Background
Previously, all discharges required anaesthetist approval, causing workflow inefficiencies and bottlenecks.
Methods
Implemented a structured 136-hour training program for nurses, covering resuscitation, pain management, airway care, and IV cannulation. Integrated e-learning modules and on-the-job training.
Results
Over 8,000 cases were discharged uneventfully under the Nurse-Led Anaesthetic Discharge (NLAD) model. Time savings per patient: 40 min for GA, 10 min for MAC cases.
Conclusion
NLAD successfully reduced PACU discharge delays and optimized manpower use. Future plans include expanding the model to other perioperative settings.
Lessons Learnt
Training and accreditation ensure sustainability. Lean Six-Sigma methodology optimized workflow efficiency.
Keywords
Post-surgery patients, Post Anaesthesia Care Unit, Basic Training, Simulation Resuscitation, Venepuncture, Lean Six-Sigma, Change Management
Innovators' Details
Innovators' Details
Healthcare Cluster(s) | National Healthcare Group |
Organization(s) Involved | Yishun Health, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital |
Platform(s) | National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals |
Healthcare Professional Group(s) | Allied Health, Nursing |
Applicable Specialty or Discipline | Anaesthesiology, Surgery |
Project Lead(s) | Lye Soh Teng |
Project Member(s) | Lai F.W. |
Connect with this contributor!
Lai Foon Wan Anne - lai.foon.wan@ktph.com.sg