Achievement of the 30-minute standard in obstetrics-can it be done?

One standard by which obstetrical practice is measured is the ability to achieve a time line of <= 30 minutes from decision for surgery to time of surgical incision for women in labor for whom a cesarean delivery is indicated due to fetal intolerance to labor. We reviewed our institution's performance regarding this standard and identified an initial rate of 25% of cases actually meeting this standard. Using a program of continuous quality improvement, various systematic and individual barriers were identified and overcome resulting in a significant change in performance. This is a report of the various processes and identified areas of challenge encountered to improve on the ability to achieve this important standard of care.