What is the purpose of a time-out in surgical procedures?

• A. To create a detailed surgical plan.
• B. To ensure correct patient and procedure verification.
• C. To manage surgical instruments.
• D. To prepare anesthesia mixtures.

Answer: (B)

The purpose of a time-out in surgical procedures is to ensure correct patient and procedure verification. This critical safety check involves a pause before the initiation of the surgical procedure, allowing the surgical team to confirm essential details such as the patient's identity, the surgical site, and the specific procedure to be performed. Conducting a time-out helps to prevent potential errors, such as wrong-site surgery or operating on the wrong patient, and ensures that everyone involved in the procedure is aligned on the essential information before proceeding.

Implementing a time-out is part of industry best practices and is recognized as a key component of patient safety protocols in operating rooms. It promotes clear communication among the healthcare team and reinforces a culture of safety and accountability in surgical settings.