ABSTRACT
Rapid changeover is one of the most important tools to master for emergency medicine and healthcare. The concept of changeover affects every aspect of the emergency department. In typical dysfunctional systems, changeover can represent as much as 80% waste, which translates into opportunity to increase revenue and throughput. The benefits of focusing on rapid changeover usually become apparent very quickly. Reducing changeover time allows more time to perform procedures, see patients, or improve throughput within the system in whatever system people are working. The approach to changeover improvement is very straightforward and follows the classic Lean approach to problem solving. External activities can be done while the physician, machine, or room is in use. Checklists are great for preparing patients to have complicated procedures. Lists can be used before the procedure is started so as not to waste time during the procedure.
