Surgical Safety Quality Measures

Informed consent Beta-blocker medication Surgical safety training Correct patient, procedure and site Pre-operative antibiotic timing Post-operative antibiotic timing Methods for reducing infections

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Surgical Safety Quality Measures

Surgical safety training

According to the Journal for Nurses in Staff Development (December, 2004; 20(6): 247-252), staff training should be a continuous competency-based process that exceeds regulatory standards and enhances overall knowledge. Many different types of training are used. Some common types of surgical training programs are:

• inservices (unit-based instruction)
• traditional courses (academic instruction)
• practice under the guidance of a preceptor (hands-on instruction)

Because of the complexity of surgery and the potential for harm, a combination of ongoing training methods is recommended to help staff continually enhance knowledge and skills regarding surgical safety.

Simulation is a newer training method that uses real-life situations, in a simulated setting. It allows nursing staff members to learn, discuss, practice, and be evaluated, while fully participating in the learning experience.

At St. Mary's Hospital Medical Center, nursing staff training regarding surgical safety is part of the staff education program. The following methods are used:

• inservices (unit-based instruction)
• practice under the guidance of a preceptor (hands-on clinical instruction)
• simulation (clinical instruction in a simulated setting)