{"id":7109,"date":"2020-02-01T00:00:22","date_gmt":"2020-02-01T08:00:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/todaysveterinarybusiness.com\/?p=7109"},"modified":"2022-06-15T17:45:16","modified_gmt":"2022-06-15T17:45:16","slug":"surgical-discharge-process","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarybusiness.com\/surgical-discharge-process\/","title":{"rendered":"From Preop through Postop"},"content":{"rendered":"

A client\u2019s decision to approve a treatment plan and go forward with any procedure is largely dependent on the relationship and trust level she has with the hospital team. If she is not comfortable with the care and communication, your recommendations will not be accepted.<\/p>\n

Financial resistance is often thought to be the reason that clients struggle with accepting surgical recommendations. In reality, it\u2019s a fear of anesthesia and what happens after the surgery. As a technician, you have the responsibility for nursing care, not only while the patient is hospitalized but postoperatively as well.<\/p>\n

I discussed the surgery experience in a previous article, but the focus then was on what should be done while the patient is hospitalized. (Read \u201cMake Surgery an Exceptional Experience\u201d at http:\/\/bit.ly\/2ZJhRjn<\/a>.) While very important, that is just the beginning of the connection we need to establish with the client.<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t Assume<\/h3>\n

We take too much for granted in veterinary medicine. We assume clients listen to, understand and remember everything we tell them. We assume they will anticipate and understand the pet\u2019s needs and follow our instructions. We assume they know how to and will give prescribed medication or perform the at-home treatment and care needed. This is a common mistake in most practices and a trend we need to acknowledge and reverse.<\/p>\n

If we can address concerns and assist clients before complications arise, we will have better surgical outcomes directly related to enhanced postoperative care<\/a> and improved communication. Positive results lead to better patient care, increased compliance, higher adherence rates, greater client satisfaction and more revenue.<\/p>\n

How do we get there? We need to create systems and resources that address every possible question and concern clients might have when deciding if and when to proceed with a surgical procedure. They need to know what to expect when providing the care the pet will need afterward.<\/p>\n

Consider how you will address:<\/p>\n