The Council of Logistics Management (CLM) defines logistics as "...the process of planning, implementing and controlling the efficient, effective flow and storage of goods, services and related information from the point of origin to the point of consumption for the purpose of conforming to customer requirements."

If you can define your supply chain - which isn't hard to do - then you can measure it, and you'll find the opportunities are so big that you won't need any more motivation. You'll want to drive continuous improvement in your supply chain.

How do you start the process of effectively managing all of the supplies that are in the operating room? Seems impossible, doesn't it? Hospital managers realize that to care efficiently for patients requires a vendor who will deliver the right supplies for the right procedure for the right cost. Essentially, hospital managers and nurses want to eliminate the excess and ensure supplies needed for patient care are easy to obtain. Information systems at the hospital and from the supplier also add to the simplicity by managing and streamlining the ordering of and charging for supplies. Moreover, information systems can provide the quality measurements via reports that are a direct result of an efficient supply chain.

Hospitals depend on strategic relationships with their suppliers to create value systems that will provide them with a competitive edge in their community. Outsourcing the supply management to a vendor with a proven record in supply chain solutions allows the hospital to focus on their core competency, which is caring for patients. This study guide will discuss the challenges associated with managing an efficient operating room, the supply chain solution process for an effective and efficient supply chain, and the impact on the success of a hospital's operations.

Intended Audience
This self-instructional educational activity is intended for use by nurse managers, and other healthcare professionals.

	One contact hour provided by an agency accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Commission on Accreditation.
	One contact hour approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing, provider number CEP13221.