Fast-tracking is becoming the buzz word in many of our institutions. Its definition and implementation, however, vary greatly in practice. Discharge criteria, determined on a case by case basis at the discretion of the Anesthesia Care Provider, is the sole determinant of patient selection. When clear practice guidelines are developed within your facility, including patient selection, informed consent and uniform discharge criteria, fast tracking can change the ways we have traditionally practiced. However, when dramatic changes are initiated in a haphazard manner, disastrous outcomes are more likely.
Patient advocacy is everyone s business.
It needs to be everyone s concern. I present each of you with a twofold challenge. First, we must identify the current level of practice. Your help is required in problem identification. We want to know about the situations in your workplace and your community, that you think defy safe and appropriate practice for perianesthesia patients.