At Children’s Wisconsin, the Diagnostic, Anesthesia and Surgical Health (DASH) team embodies the idea of “One Team.” Every member of our surgical team — surgeons, anesthesiologists, operative services assistants, surgical technologists, nurses, schedulers, sterile processing and child life specialists — shares a mission to provide the safest, highest-quality care to patients and families. One of the most visible ways we achieve that mission is by ensuring first case on-time starts in the OR.

On-time starts are not simply about punctuality. They are a measure of how well we coordinate across disciplines, respect one another’s contributions and keep the patient and family experience at the center. When the first case begins on time, the OR schedule flows smoothly. Rooms are utilized efficiently, delays are reduced and surgical teams can focus fully on patient care instead of rushing to catch up.

For patients and families, an on-time start sets the tone for the surgical experience. Families often arrive early with children who are tired, hungry and anxious. When their child is taken back to the OR as scheduled, it communicates reliability, respect and compassion. It reduces waiting and uncertainty, reinforcing the trust families place in us during vulnerable moments.

Achieving consistent first case on-time starts is a true team sport. Every role in surgical services matters, much like a pit crew at a racetrack. Schedulers ensure that case lengths are accurate so that the flow of the operating room is smooth every day. Anesthesiologists and surgeons arrive promptly to obtain consent and answer questions. Surgical technologists confirm instruments and equipment are ready. OR nurses complete pre-op checks. Sterile processing ensures instruments are sterile and available, and environmental services colleagues provide a clean, safe environment. When each part of the “pit crew” executes with precision, the team delivers on-time starts.

For families, staff and providers alike, punctual starts are a symbol of professionalism and teamwork. They require coordination, accountability and a willingness to step in for one another. A delay in one area becomes a delay for all. Conversely, a proactive handoff, a timely check-in or an extra set of hands can make all the difference.

As the DASH team, we succeed or stumble together. “One Team” means we share responsibility for every outcome. By committing to first case on-time starts, we commit to each other, to efficiency and most importantly to the children and families who rely on us.

Our goal is clear: Every child deserves an OR team that is ready when promised. When we start on time, we honor that promise.