
144 Leveraging Lean in Medical Laboratories
1. Preparation (P) and organization, which is gathering and preparing tools, information, or
anything needed ahead of time for the “changeover.” For example:
• Is the bed available with an IV pole and a “roller” to move the patient (technicians,
assistants)?
• Does the patient need blood for potential transfusions on standby (nursing personnel)?
• Is the next patient prepared to enter the room (by the surgeon, OR staff, and
anesthesiologist)?
• Is the anesthesia equipment prepared?
• Are the clean supplies ready (support staff/assistants)?
• Checking to see if the correct case cart is pulled, any ...