While staff orientation is a key requirement for ASCs seeking accreditation, it is imperative that ASCs pay close attention to how they train new employees, according to Alpharetta, Ga.-based Surgical Information Systems.
Ann Geier, RN, chief nursing officer for Surgical Information Systems, shared five insights on how ASCs can onboard new hires on the SIS' blog:
1. Take your time. When onboarding new hires, there can be a tendency to rush, Ms. Geier said. Giving new employees the time to understand the ASC's processes before getting to work helps mitigate risks and ensures the ASC continues to run smoothly.
2. Complete orientation in one sitting. Breaking up the orientation process can interrupt a new hire's learning experience. Keeping an orientation session consistent ensures the new hire stays on track with learning the ASC's processes.
3. Share responsibilities. Assign orientation responsibilities to ASC employees and hold staff accountable for finishing the training to ensure proper completion of the process. The new hire should also be encouraged to ask questions and provide feedback, prompting supervisors when something may not have been covered by the orientation.
4. Account for paperwork. Ensure the new hire takes the time to complete all paperwork required by the state department of health and the ASC's accreditation organization.
5. Don't forget the facility tour. Don't expect the new hires to figure out the ASC on their own. Give a proper tour to help the employee feel more comfortable and create a foundation for future success.
"Take the time to develop an orientation process that covers all the bases and everyone — physicians, staff and patients — will reap the rewards," Ms. Geier said.
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