Standards and training for clinical staff working within the primary recovery area should be as defined within RCoA guidelines for the provision of anaesthesia services for the perioperative care of elective and urgent care patients.12
Training should be multidisciplinary, with the use of simulation encouraged.16
Appropriate and comprehensive training for anaesthetists in this subspecialty should be given according to current standards as defined by the RCoA.63
Training for all clinical staff involved in the day surgery pathway should emphasise the following aspects:
Funding for pathway redesign and facilities has been provided by central government and local commissioners. Cost analysis should consider all finances, including capital and maintenance costs, staffing and training costs for both the theatre and the ward, as well as costs related to the procedure itself.21
When selecting options for anaesthetic techniques within the day surgery unit, consideration should be given not only to the cost of delivering that anaesthetic but to the wider patient outcome costs. High-quality anaesthetic techniques and consumables, including drugs, maybe economically viable even if apparently more expensive.24
Investment in senior staff experienced in the practice of day surgery is required to ensure high-quality efficient processes.24
The Royal College of Anaesthetists has published guidance for audits and quality improvement projects in day surgery.6 Each day surgery unit should have a system in place for the routine audit of important basic clinical and organisational parameters such as:
