Peace Arch Hospital expands surgery-prep success program
A proven program at Peace Arch Hospital is showing how focused surgery prep before operations can transform recovery and patient outcomes.
Project improves health before surgery
Launched in January 2022, the Surgical Patient Optimization Collaborative was designed to help patients enter surgery in the best possible health. The program focused on four key areas: quitting smoking, correcting low iron levels, treating sleep apnea, and connecting patients to community supports for stress and recovery.
Strong results within 18 months
The initiative produced striking results. More than 82% of smokers reduced or quit, nearly 73% of patients with low iron improved, and 63% of those at risk for sleep apnea began CPAP therapy. Patients also reported feeling more prepared and supported, with seven in ten saying their overall health improved.
Better recovery and shorter hospital stays
The program’s impact extended beyond patient feedback. Surgical-site infections dropped from 3.1% to 1.1%, readmissions fell by half, and the average hospital stay shortened from 3.2 days to 2.9 days.
Doctors highlight patient support
Anesthesiologist and project lead Dr. Marshall Cheng said the results prove the value of pre-surgery preparation. “Patients do better and feel better when they are supported early,” he noted, adding the Pre-admission Clinic team played a crucial role.
Expanding beyond Peace Arch
The program’s success has prompted expansion across more departments at Peace Arch Hospital. Findings published in the BC Medical Journal are also guiding efforts to adapt the approach to other surgeries and health-care facilities across the province.
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