Unit 96: Operating Theatre Administrative Services

1. Introduction to Operating Theatre Administrative Services

• Role and importance of administrative services
• Key responsibilities: coordination, documentation, communication
• Challenges in operating theatre administration
• Essential skills for effective management (organizational, communication, problem-solving)

2. Operating Theatre Policies and Procedures

• Overview of relevant policies and procedures
• Safety protocols (infection control, emergency procedures)
• Patient confidentiality and data protection
• Equipment maintenance and sterilization standards
• Inventory management procedures

3. Scheduling and Coordination of Operating Theatre Activities

• Principles of surgery scheduling
• Coordination with surgical teams, nursing staff, anesthesiology, and support departments
• Managing operating theatre resources (rooms, equipment, staff)
• Handling cancellations, emergencies, and urgent cases
• Optimizing workflow and patient throughput

4. Medical Records Management in the Operating Theatre

• Importance of accurate medical documentation
• Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems: features and benefits
• Patient documentation: consent forms, surgical notes, post-operative records
• Regulatory compliance and confidentiality requirements
• Data security and record retention policies

5. Billing and Coding in the Operating Theatre

• Overview of medical billing and coding processes
• Common coding systems (e.g., ICD, CPT) relevant to surgery
• Insurance processing and reimbursement procedures
• Ensuring coding accuracy and avoiding errors
• Compliance with medical billing regulations and audits

6. Inventory Control and Supply Chain Management

• Principles of inventory control in healthcare settings
• Supply chain management specific to operating theatre supplies and pharmaceuticals
• Procurement processes and vendor management
• Maintaining adequate stock levels and cost control
• Use of technology in inventory tracking

7. Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement

• Concepts and importance of quality assurance in the operating theatre
• Patient safety initiatives and risk management
• Monitoring surgical outcomes and performance indicators
• Identifying areas for improvement
• Implementing best practices and continuous improvement strategies

8. Communication and Interpersonal Skills in Healthcare Administration

• Effective communication techniques with healthcare professionals and patients
• Handling difficult conversations and conflict resolution
• Team collaboration and multidisciplinary coordination
• Cultural competence and patient-centered communication
• Documentation and reporting skills

9. Legal and Ethical Considerations in Operating Theatre Administration

• Patient rights and informed consent
• Confidentiality and HIPAA compliance
• Liability and risk management in administrative roles
• Ethical decision-making frameworks
• Compliance with healthcare laws and regulations