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Learning Objective 1: The learner will be able to name two educational strategies that will promote staff engagement in cost reduction initiatives.
Learning Objective 2: The learner will be able to state five specific reasons for supply and implant waste.
Methods:In 2010, an analysis of wasted supplies (including implants) documented by nurses during surgical cases, determined that approximately $273,276 in supplies had been wasted. Reasons for wasting fell into five major categories: surgeon preference changed during case, case cancellation after supply was opened; supply opened, but not used; supply damaged; supply contaminated.
Beginning in 2011, surgical staff and surgeons were educated on the financial impact of wasting supplies and implants. Progress in cost reduction was shared at staff meetings. Staff and surgeons were asked not to open supplies that may not be needed. Monthly waste reports are shared with staff and surgeons.
Results:During FY 2011 and 2012 supply waste was decreased by $67,798. In the first 8 months of FY 2013 the average supply waste is $13,673/month. If these savings continue, the total waste amount will represent a 40% decrease from the 2010 average. SAMC benchmark data has also shown a 6.1 million dollar improvement in supply cost excess over the last 4 years.
Conclusion: Bringing awareness to all members of the team can produce substantial savings. Cost reductions occur when staff and surgeons are provided with data that supports the need for decreasing costs and are given the opportunity to provide input into cost saving initiatives.