Operating Room Management, Measures of OR Efficiency, and Cost-Effectiveness

Abstract

Proper management of the operating room (OR) suite is important so that patients can get safe and efficient care. Much of the decision-making by the OR manager needs to be done prior to the day of surgery in order to appropriately allocate OR time, assign staffing, and estimate case durations. OR managers are also responsible for last-minute decisions on the day of surgery, such as determining which OR should perform add-on cases and emergencies. This chapter reviews key aspects of OR management including basic definitions, case duration predictions, OR time allocation and utilization, staffing, and measures of OR efficiency. These variables can help the OR manager make the best use of OR time and staff to maximize throughput of cases. Leadership ability is also a key component of OR suite management whereby teamwork and cooperation are encouraged so that OR personnel enjoy a healthy work environment.