Peace of Mind Organizing

The doctor's exam room

21 May 2010

I had my annual mole check at the dermatologist’s office recently (all is well) and while I waited for the doctor in the exam room, I took note of how satisfyingly organized the room was.

Doctors and nurses don’t have time to look for stuff. It’s vitally important that they don’t grab the wrong implement or item. So an exam room is a paradigm of organization. Here’s what I noticed:

• Everything (syringes, needles, cotton balls, gauze pads, packets of things) was contained.

• Unwrapped things that needed to be kept clean were stored in clear containers with lids.

• Sealed things were stord in open bins to allow easy access.

• Every container was labeled.

• The outside of drawers were labeled as well. I didn’t open them and look, but I fantasize that the interiors of the drawers were neatly organized as well.

In a situation where time is money and cleanliness and professional appearance are critical, proper labeling and storage are critical. This superior level of organization illustrates the principles I teach my clients:

• Sort things into categories

• Use an appropriate sized container

• Use open bins whenever possible

• Label the heck out of everything

• Put things things away

My own office isn’t as tidy as my doctor’s exam room. Not today, anyway. But at least I’m not seeing clients in it. (Though there are occasional exceptions.) But I found the level of organization in that exam room so enjoyable. Next time I clean and organize my office (maybe this weekend?), I’ll have to try to channel my inner physician.

Tagged with: company, doctor's offices

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