Demand for endoscopic procedures has grown dramatically in recent years, outstripping the capacity of the Methodist endoscopy unit. To address this, we needed to increase capacity in multiple areas: specifically, preprocedure patient assessment and education, the preassessment area in endoscopy, our endoscopy procedure rooms, the endoscopy recovery area, the endoscopy storage area, and administrative support from the Health Unit Coordinators.

We addressed all of these issues with a combination of six Sigma and two Lean Rapid Process Improvement workshops. These projects impacted budget initiatives allowing us to do procedures at Methodist generating revenue instead of moving business elsewhere with the loss of revenue. Patient access to endoscopic procedures was improved. Moreover, on the day of the procedure, waiting times were decreased. The improved throughput allows the gastroenterology physician group to grow and provide greater service and allows the nurse to provide greater continuity of care for the patient. The project gained the opportunity cost for loss of procedures and improved patient access as well as growing market share.

Section Description

We are pleased to present the Abstracts from the SGNA's 32nd Annual Course: Passion for GI Nursing: Pass It On!! The diversity of these topics certainly reflects the richness and breadth of our specialty. In keeping with the tradition of the Annual Course, we hope the following abstracts will encourage discussions for improving nursing practice and patient care outcomes.