Quality of Anesthesia Care, An Issue of Anesthesiology Clinics (Volume 29-1) (The Clinics: Surgery, Volume 29-1)

This issue on sex and gender comes at an opportune time, as the DSM-IV is being revised, and in particular sex and gender issues are being reconsidered. This issue focuses on research in the area of gender variant children and transgender adolescents, assessment of several scenarios and clear information on practice parameters. Therapy for gender variant children and transgender adolescents is discussed in detail, as well as parents'perspectives, ethical legal, and non-discrimination issues, and education on these subjects. International standards of care are also discussed.

Ongoing improvement in the quality of patient care is essential to all anesthesia practices. This issue of Anesthesiology Clinics provides solid foundation and guidance in how to improve outcomes, as it covers the following topics. An overview of QI structures and initiatives is presented, focusing on the relevance to anesthesiology. A practical guide on how to implement a QI program is provided. Quality measurement approaches and issues, including the use of databases and risk adjustment are also examined. How to use simulation and other cutting-edge technology to improve quality in the OR is provided. Issues in multidisciplinary education and enhanced communication are explored. Recommendations for fostering a culture of safety are provided. How real-time support and decision-making can improve performance on quality process measures are examined. Clinical topics including bariatrics, geriatrics and decreasing perioperative delirium, and pain management are covered, as well as issues about end-of-life care.

Improvement in the quality of patient care is essential to various anesthesia practices. This title provides foundation and guidance in how to improve outcomes, presenting an overview of QI structures and initiatives, and focusing on the relevance to anesthesiology.