Jane Cox1, Carla Cormack2, Monique Prendergast2, Hazel Celestino2, Sean Willis2, Maribeth Witteveen2. 1. University Hospital - London Health Sciences Centre, 339 Windermere Road, London, Ontario, Canada N6A 5A5. Electronic address: Jane.cox@lhsc.on.ca. 2. University Hospital - London Health Sciences Centre, 339 Windermere Road, London, Ontario, Canada N6A 5A5.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The orthopaedic program at a large academic teaching hospital introduced a quality initiative for the primary hip and knee arthroplasty population with the goal to reduce the overall length of stay (LOS) to less than 3 days while ensuring an efficient and exceptional patient experience. This article focuses on the process used to evaluate patient and provider satisfaction with the changes made to achieve a reduction in length of stay. METHOD: The initiative involved current and future process mapping, patient and staff education, a comprehensive mobility strategy, pain management pathways and an evaluation of the patient and provider experience. The goal to reduce LOS for both primary hip and knee arthroplasty surgery was achieved. CONCLUSION: The patients were satisfied with their overall experience including their LOS and preparedness for discharge home.
BACKGROUND: The orthopaedic program at a large academic teaching hospital introduced a quality initiative for the primary hip and knee arthroplasty population with the goal to reduce the overall length of stay (LOS) to less than 3 days while ensuring an efficient and exceptional patient experience. This article focuses on the process used to evaluate patient and provider satisfaction with the changes made to achieve a reduction in length of stay. METHOD: The initiative involved current and future process mapping, patient and staff education, a comprehensive mobility strategy, pain management pathways and an evaluation of the patient and provider experience. The goal to reduce LOS for both primary hip and knee arthroplasty surgery was achieved. CONCLUSION: The patients were satisfied with their overall experience including their LOS and preparedness for discharge home.