Learning Outcome: At least 80% of participants will report improved understanding of how Lean principles can reduce waste in perioperative processes and identify at least one Lean tool they can apply in their surgical setting.
Overview/Abstract: Surgical centers are under increasing pressure to deliver high-quality care while managing limited resources. In high-volume ophthalmic surgery, where rapid turnover and precision are critical, even small inefficiencies can result in significant waste. This session presents a real-world application of Lean Healthcare principles in ophthalmic surgical centers, highlighting how process mapping, root cause analysis, and frontline team engagement led to measurable reductions in material waste, procedural delays, and rework. Attendees will learn how Lean tools can be adapted to the specific dynamics of eye surgery, and how nurse leaders can lead cost-effective, sustainable improvements without compromising patient safety or staff engagement.
Description of Current State: Despite growing awareness of Lean Healthcare, many surgical centers continue to struggle with inefficiencies, material waste, and unstandardized workflows. Tools like process mapping, root cause analysis, and visual management are underutilized by clinical teams, especially in specialties with rapid turnover like ophthalmology. Waste remains invisible to many frontline professionals.
Description of Desired/Achievable State: A surgical environment where nurses and interdisciplinary teams use Lean tools to identify and eliminate waste, enhance workflow efficiency, and improve patient throughput. Participants will leave with actionable strategies and real-world examples to lead Lean initiatives in their own surgical units.
Audience Engagement: • Q&A session for application in participants’ own settings. • Sharing of real-life examples to connect theory to practice.
Additional Information:
Content/Topics: 1. Lean Healthcare Fundamentals for the OR 2. Types of Waste in Surgical Processes 3. Key Lean Tools 4. The Role of Nurses in Lean Process Improvement 5. Case Study: Applying Lean in High-Volume Eye Surgery Centers 6. Engaging the Surgical Team in Daily Lean Practices 7. Building a Culture of Continuous Improvement
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Faria GA. Collaborative strategies to reduce costs and waste in the operating room. EyeWorld. 2023. Available from: https://www.eyeworld.org/2023/collaborative-strategies-to-reduce-costs-and-waste-in-the-operating-room/
American Academy of Ophthalmology. Reducing topical drug waste in ophthalmic surgery. 2022. Available from: https://www.aao.org/education/clinical-statement/reducing-topical-drug-waste-in-ophthalmic-surgery
Chang DF. Tackling the challenge of needless surgical waste. J Cataract Refract Surg. 2023;49(4):312–4. Available from: https://journals.lww.com/jcrs/fulltext/2023/04000/tackling_the_challenge_of_needless_surgical_waste.1.aspx
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