For ASC administrators planning to retire in the near future or those just wanting to take a more relaxing vacation, succession planning is essential, says Mary Ryan, RN, CASC, a senior consultant for Amblitel in Louisville, Colorado. “If you are in a leadership position, see who you have ‘sitting on the bench’ that you can mentor and help provide the education they need. That way, they can effectively step into your shoes—whether on a permanent basis, should you choose to leave your position, or so you can feel more confident in your team handling day-to-day operations while you are away.”