Description
Dr. Scarlett McNally introduces herself as the Deputy Director of the Center for Perioperative Care and a consultant orthopedic surgeon in East Sussex. She discusses the establishment of the Center in 2019, aimed at enhancing the patient journey around surgery through a collaborative partnership between patients, the public, and professional bodies, supported by the Royal College of Anaesthetists. Dr. McNally emphasizes the significance of optimizing perioperative care to improve clinical outcomes, reduce costs, and enhance patient satisfaction.
By analyzing a wealth of literature, she highlights that adopting a structured perioperative pathway can lead to shorter hospital stays, significant reductions in complications, and overall better recovery experiences for patients. The discussion also touches on the importance of effective team dynamics within the surgical context, where communication and teamwork can substantially enhance care delivery.
She advocates for proactive patient engagement focusing on behavior modifications, such as exercise and nutrition, not only for recovery post-surgery but as a lifestyle change that can lead to sustained health benefits. Dr. McNally encourages all healthcare professionals to engage in discussions about wellness and risk management with patients. Furthermore, she acknowledges the role of improved shared decision-making processes to better inform patients about their treatment options and associated risks.
Emphasizing the need for consistent training for medical staff and effective communication strategies in multi-disciplinary teams, Dr. McNally notes that these improvements can ultimately lead to reduced complications and better surgical results. With a focus on continuous learning and adaptation, the Center aims to spearhead initiatives that prioritize patient welfare and optimize surgical outcomes.