Use of Simulation Software in Optimizing PACU Operations and Promoting Evidence-Based Practice Guidelines

Abstract

Purpose: As health care service costs continue to rise, hospitals are looking for innovative solutions to reduce financial burden while maintaining, and even advancing, quality of care. The objective of this study was to reduce costly delays in perioperative operations.

Design: Quality improvement project using lean methodology.

Methods: Discrete event simulation was used to evaluate multiple scenarios for improving the flow of patients through the Ambulatory Surgery Center's recovery unit. Bottlenecks were identified to safely minimize service delays and enhance the patient's experience.

Findings: Applying the Theory of Constraints, postanesthesia care unit recovery time was identified as the system constraint. An average 5- to 8-minute reduction in recovery time would reduce OR delays by more than 20%. Improvement efforts were focused on application of evidence-based practice.

Conclusions: Simulation established a safe and cost-effective environment for exploring tests of change and optimizing the physical design and operations of an expansion hospital site.

Keywords: pediatrics; postanesthesia care unit; process improvement; simulation.