Patient Safety: Perianesthesia Nursing's Essential Role in Safe Practice

A safety culture that promotes best practices and best outcomes is important in today's healthcare environment. The perianesthesia environment of care is constantly challenged with the introduction of new technologies, improved medications, and advances in surgical and nonsurgical procedures. This practice is also marked by fast turnover, increasing volume, and, often, high-acuity patients. The integration of principles of safety and evidence-based principles is a core value of perianesthesia practice. The American Society of PeriAnesthesia Nurses (ASPAN) is committed to providing the foundation to support a culture of perianesthesia safety. This article will discuss the development of the ASPAN Safety Model by the ASPAN Safety Committee.

Keywords: patient safety, safe practice, ASPAN Safety Model, standards, perianesthesia safety