Telephone follow-up of ambulatory surgery patients following discharge is a nursing responsibility

Abstract

The ambulatory surgery nurse manages care for a diverse population of patients who may or may not be ideal candidates for early discharge after surgery. Integral to the nursing care is the postdischarge follow-up contact, which allows the nurse to assess the patient's level of recuperation and evaluate the care provided. A number of reasons, besides completion of the nursing process, indicate that this contact is a nursing obligation. These include compliance with national standards of care, improvement of quality of care, and reduction of the facility's liability exposure. These calls also show a sense of caring about patients and help to market the ambulatory surgery program in the community. The nurse develops a true sense of professionalism and often benefits by increased job satisfaction.