The Q&A reads as follows:
Q: How many prep and recovery positions does a Georgia ambulatory surgery center need?
A: A minimum of one (1) prep and one (1) recovery position per operating room.
A functional program and recovery area analysis created by the ASC will determine the need for any additional prep and recovery positions.
Sign up for our FREE E-Weekly for more coverage like this sent to your inbox!
Design help: The 2010 “Guidelines for the Design and Construction of Health Care Facilities” has the following minimum standards:
Preoperative patient holding area: A separate area used exclusively for preoperative patient care. (Commonly known as PREP or PRE-OP)
A minimum of one (1) station per operating room.
Post-anesthesia recovery positions: a separate area used exclusively for postoperative patient care. (Commonly known as PACU)
A minimum of one (1) recovery station per operating room along with a recovery area analysis to determine the need for additional stations.
In the absence of a recovery area analysis the minimum number of stations recommended is:
- Three (3) recovery stations per Class C operating room,
- Two (2) recovery stations per Class B operating room,
- One (1) recovery station per Class A operating room.
Phase II recovery: (commonly known as step-down recovery)
No minimum number of stations.
Note: The preoperative patient holding area may be used for Phase II recovery.
Prep-recovery area: A single room or area used for both prep and recovery.
A combination prep and recovery area may be provided.
The total minimum number of stations (prep and recovery) shall be two (2) (one prep and one recovery) per operating room. Additional stations may be provided according to the recovery area analysis or the minimum number of recommended stations as outlined for post-anesthesia recovery positions.
Note: When combining prep and recovery in one area all of the positions shall be designed as recovery stations. The thinking here is that in the beginning of the day most or all the stations will be used as prep and towards the end of the day most or all of the stations will be used for recovery.
Source: Georgia Department of Community Health.
Related Articles on ASC Requirements:
Ask the Expert: Handwashing Compliance
Delaware Proposes Revisions to Regulations Governing Freestanding Surgical Centers
14 Steps to Ensure Proper Credentialing of Practitioners Privileged to Practice Without Supervision
