Applying Intermittent Pneumatic Compression in Surgery Centers: Q&A With Jan Davidson of AORN

Jan Davidson, RN, MSN, is the new AORN perioperative education specialist who has a focus on ambulatory surgery centers.
 
Q: I am trying to determine what the best practice is relative to applying IPC (intermittent pneumatic compression) in the ASC setting. Specifically, if the surgery is 30 minutes, should it be used? Or 45 minutes? Or an hour?
 
Jan Davidson: There is not a black and white answer to this question. Much depends on the patient’s risk factors. If the patient is an otherwise normal, healthy person and is having a 30-minute procedure, then they probably are not indicated. If, however, the patient is obese, has a history of varicose veins, is going to be having pelvic surgery and positioned lithotomy, for example, then you would probably want to use them, irrespective of the length of time the surgery is planned. If your better judgment tells you to use them as a prophylaxis, then use them.

Advertisement
By: Staff

 

That’s where your critical thinking skills come into play. The key is correct placement of the IPCs and documentation that they were used.

 

Learn more about AORN.

 

Read more from AORN:

 

– 6 Common Misconceptions About Surgery Center Sterilization

 

– AORN Releases Learning Module to Assess Knowledge of Retained Surgical Items Prevention

 

– Sharps Injuries Still High Despite Legislation and Improved Technology

At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.

Register to Attend Webinar

Is ambulatory care healthcare’s big margin engine? 4 leaders weigh in

Wednesday, July 29
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM CDT

Presenters: Joe Ganley, athenahealthJeffrey Flynn, CASC, Gramercy Surgery CenterBryan Tsao, Access Center, Loma Linda University HealthJason Zepeda, Northridge Hospital Medical Center, CommonSpirit HealthGreg DeConciliis, PA-C, CASC, Boston Out­Patient Surgical Suites

Advertisement

Next Up in ASC Accreditation, Licensure & Medicare Certification

Advertisement

Comments are closed.