Healthcare solutions

The demanding nature of roles within operating rooms is widely acknowledged. Patients' lives hang in the balance, and even the tiniest oversight can lead to disastrous outcomes. Surgeons often find themselves frustrated when the materials management department introduces new supplies or equipment without prior notice, despite outsiders perceiving these changes as insignificant. Given the criticality of procedures in the operating room and the surgeons' reliance on established routines, even minor alterations like a new suction tip can disrupt their focus during surgery.

This underscores the vital role of an OR Supply Chain Coordinator who excels in communication and possesses a profound understanding of on-site procedures. Building trust with operating room staff is paramount to ensure they feel informed and included in equipment decisions, rather than blindsided by unexpected changes.

On average, a perioperative supply chain program accounts for approximately 40% of a hospital's total supply expenditures, with its inventory value typically ranking highest among all departments. While maintaining efficiency and standardization in the OR supply chain may seem daunting initially, it is entirely achievable. Employing a dedicated OR Supply Chain Coordinator who comprehensively understands daily OR operations and product nuances is a strategic step toward optimizing OR Supply Chain management. The conventional approach to managing OR inventory has involved a rotational responsibility among Materials Management (MM), nursing personnel, and OR staff. However, this setup often leads to breakdowns in communication — too many hands stirring the pot, so to speak. The lack of clearly defined roles among these parties results in blurred responsibilities, causing miscommunication, equipment errors, and overall dissatisfaction.

MM staff typically lack direct involvement in day-to-day OR activities, which limits their understanding of necessary equipment. Nursing staff, while essential, struggle to bridge this gap, particularly amid rising staff shortages.

Contrastingly, an OR Supply Chain Coordinator integrated seamlessly into the OR staff can:

• Possess a comprehensive grasp of products, their uses, and variations

• Provide advance notice to OR staff regarding anticipated equipment changes

• Justify equipment modifications based on a deep understanding of OR operations

• Establish credibility within the OR team, avoiding an 'outsider' perception

• Alleviate the burden on nursing staff and inventory management, allowing them to prioritize patient care

• Serve as a cost-effective intermediary between the Supply Chain and OR staff, streamlining processes and enhancing overall efficiency.