Explore the Surgical Safety Checklist: Lean Six Sigma, a comprehensive workflow ensuring patient safety, accurate procedures, and effective post-operational care.
1
Identification of the patient before surgery
2
Marking the surgical site
3
Confirmation of medical documents
4
Ensure patient understands procedure
5
Review of patient's medical history
6
Verification of preoperative medicine intake
7
Approval: Patient Consent
8
Check functionality of surgical instruments
9
Conducting facility and equipment sterilization
10
Team briefing and assignment of roles
11
Approval: Surgeon
12
Confirmation of the proper surgical procedure
13
Ensure OR cleanliness
14
Check patient's vital signs
15
Review of operation procedure and duration
16
Securely positioning the patient on OT table
17
Final verification before anesthesia
18
Approval: Anesthesiologist
19
Execution of surgical operation
20
Post-operative care and instructions
21
Documentation of the completed procedure
22
Approval: Post Operative Care
Identification of the patient before surgery
This task involves identifying the patient scheduled for surgery. It is crucial to ensure that the correct patient is identified to avoid any errors or mix-ups during the surgical procedure. The impact of this task on the overall process is significant as it helps establish the foundation for patient safety. The desired result is to accurately identify the patient and confirm their identity with the medical records. The task requires the use of patient identification wristbands, medical records, and clear communication with the patient. Potential challenges may include patients who are unconscious or unable to communicate. In such cases, additional verification methods such as asking for personal details or matching photographs may be necessary.
1
Patient identification wristband
2
Asking for personal details
3
Matching photographs
4
Confirmation from accompanying family member
5
Verification through medical records
Marking the surgical site
This task involves marking the surgical site on the patient's body before the surgery. It plays a critical role in preventing wrong-site surgeries and ensuring patient safety. The desired result is to have a visible and clearly marked surgical site. The task requires the use of marking pens and communication with the patient and surgical team. Potential challenges may include patient discomfort or anxiety about the marking process. It is important to address any concerns and explain the importance of site marking to the patient.
Confirmation of medical documents
This task involves confirming the accuracy and completeness of the patient's medical documents related to the surgical procedure. It ensures that all necessary information is available to the surgical team for a safe and successful operation. The desired result is to have verified and accessible medical documents. The task requires reviewing the patient's medical records, consent forms, and any other relevant documents. Potential challenges may include missing or incomplete information. In such cases, additional documentation or communication with the patient or healthcare provider may be required.
Ensure patient understands procedure
This task involves ensuring that the patient fully understands the surgical procedure, its risks, benefits, and possible outcomes. It is essential for patient autonomy and informed decision-making. The desired result is to have a well-informed patient who has consented to the surgery. The task requires clear communication with the patient, providing them with educational materials and an opportunity to ask questions. Potential challenges may include language barriers or patient anxiety. In such cases, the assistance of a translator or additional explanations may be necessary.
Review of patient's medical history
This task involves reviewing the patient's medical history to identify any preexisting conditions or factors that may affect the surgical procedure or patient safety. It helps the surgical team make informed decisions and implement necessary precautions. The desired result is to have a comprehensive understanding of the patient's medical background. The task requires accessing and reviewing the patient's medical records, laboratory results, and previous surgical history. Potential challenges may include limited availability of medical records or incomplete information. In such cases, additional communication with the patient or healthcare provider may be necessary.
Verification of preoperative medicine intake
This task involves verifying the patient's intake of preoperative medicines. It ensures that the patient has followed the prescribed medication regimen to minimize potential risks during surgery. The desired result is to have confirmation of the patient's preoperative medicine intake. The task requires communication with the patient, reviewing medication lists, and checking for any contraindications. Potential challenges may include patient confusion or incomplete medication information. In such cases, additional discussions with the patient or healthcare provider may be necessary.
1
Followed prescribed medication regimen
2
Missed medication doses
3
Took additional medication
4
Not sure
Approval: Patient Consent
Will be submitted for approval:
Identification of the patient before surgery
Will be submitted
Marking the surgical site
Will be submitted
Confirmation of medical documents
Will be submitted
Ensure patient understands procedure
Will be submitted
Review of patient's medical history
Will be submitted
Verification of preoperative medicine intake
Will be submitted
Check functionality of surgical instruments
This task involves checking the functionality and sterility of surgical instruments before the procedure. It ensures that the instruments are in proper working condition and free from contamination, reducing the risk of complications during surgery. The desired result is to have sterile and functional surgical instruments. The task requires inspecting the instruments, verifying their sterility, and testing their functionality. Potential challenges may include instrument damage or inadequate sterilization. In such cases, replacements or re-sterilization may be necessary.
1
Inspect instruments for damage
2
Verify sterility
3
Test moving parts
4
Check electrical instruments
5
Ensure proper storage
Conducting facility and equipment sterilization
This task involves conducting sterilization procedures for the surgical facility and equipment. It ensures a clean and sterile environment for the surgical procedure, reducing the risk of infections. The desired result is to have a sterile and safe surgical environment. The task requires following established sterilization protocols, using appropriate disinfectants or sterilization methods, and monitoring the effectiveness of the sterilization processes. Potential challenges may include equipment malfunctions or inadequate sterilization. In such cases, repairs or alternative sterilization methods may be necessary.
1
Steam sterilization
2
Chemical sterilization
3
Gas sterilization
4
Radiation sterilization
5
Dry heat sterilization
Team briefing and assignment of roles
This task involves conducting a team briefing to ensure clear communication, coordination, and assignment of roles within the surgical team. It establishes accountability and facilitates smooth teamwork during the surgical procedure. The desired result is to have a well-informed and coordinated surgical team. The task requires gathering the surgical team, discussing the procedure, clarifying roles and responsibilities, and addressing any concerns or questions. Potential challenges may include miscommunication or confusion regarding roles. In such cases, additional explanations or role reassignments may be necessary.
Approval: Surgeon
Will be submitted for approval:
Check functionality of surgical instruments
Will be submitted
Conducting facility and equipment sterilization
Will be submitted
Team briefing and assignment of roles
Will be submitted
Confirmation of the proper surgical procedure
This task involves confirming that the correct surgical procedure is planned for the patient. It ensures that there are no errors or misunderstandings regarding the intended surgery. The desired result is to have confirmation of the proper surgical procedure. The task requires reviewing the surgical consent form, operative notes, and communication with the patient and surgical team. Potential challenges may include incomplete or ambiguous documentation. In such cases, additional clarifications or consultations may be necessary.
Ensure OR cleanliness
This task involves ensuring the cleanliness and organization of the operating room (OR) before the surgical procedure. It creates a safe and sterile environment for the surgery, reducing the risk of infections and complications. The desired result is to have a clean and well-prepared OR. The task requires visual inspection, cleaning protocols, and proper disposal of waste materials. Potential challenges may include inadequate cleaning or contamination. In such cases, additional cleaning measures or reorganization may be necessary.
1
Clean surfaces
2
Replace disposable items
3
Check availability of sterilized supplies
4
Dispose of waste materials
5
Inspect lighting and equipment
Check patient's vital signs
This task involves checking the patient's vital signs to ensure their stability before the surgical procedure. It provides important baseline information and helps identify any potential risks or complications. The desired result is to have stable vital signs within normal ranges. The task requires using appropriate medical equipment, such as a blood pressure cuff or pulse oximeter, and recording the measurements accurately. Potential challenges may include abnormal vital signs or difficulties in obtaining accurate measurements. In such cases, further assessment or consultation with the healthcare provider may be necessary.
Review of operation procedure and duration
This task involves reviewing the operation procedure and estimating its duration. It helps the surgical team plan and coordinate their actions during the procedure. The desired result is to have a clear understanding of the operation procedure and its expected duration. The task requires reviewing the operative notes, consulting with the surgeon, and considering any potential complications. Potential challenges may include unexpected changes to the procedure or variations in surgical times. In such cases, adaptability and effective communication are necessary.
Securely positioning the patient on OT table
This task involves securely positioning the patient on the operating table to ensure their safety, comfort, and accessibility during the surgical procedure. It helps prevent patient movement or discomfort during the surgery. The desired result is to have a patient securely and appropriately positioned on the operating table. The task requires the teamwork of the surgical team and the use of positioning aids or supports. Potential challenges may include patient physical limitations or difficulties in achieving proper alignment. In such cases, additional positioning techniques or equipment may be necessary.
1
Supine position
2
Prone position
3
Lateral position
4
Trendelenburg position
5
Reverse Trendelenburg position
Final verification before anesthesia
This task involves performing a final verification of essential details before administering anesthesia to the patient. It ensures the accuracy of patient information, surgical procedure details, and anesthesia-related considerations. The desired result is to have verified and confirmed information before anesthesia administration. The task requires cross-checking documentation, communication with the anesthesia team, and addressing any concerns or discrepancies. Potential challenges may include incomplete or outdated information. In such cases, additional verifications or updates may be necessary.
1
General anesthesia
2
Regional anesthesia
3
Local anesthesia
4
Monitored anesthesia care
Approval: Anesthesiologist
Execution of surgical operation
This task involves performing the surgical operation according to the planned procedure. It requires the expertise and coordination of the surgical team to ensure the best possible outcome for the patient. The desired result is to successfully complete the surgical operation. The task requires adherence to sterile techniques, accurate tissue handling, and effective communication among the surgical team. Potential challenges may include unexpected complications or variations during the procedure. In such cases, adaptability and clinical judgment are necessary.
Post-operative care and instructions
This task involves providing post-operative care and instructions to the patient after the surgical procedure. It aims to promote patient recovery and prevent complications. The desired result is to have a well-informed patient who understands the necessary post-operative care steps. The task requires clear communication with the patient, providing written instructions or educational materials, and addressing any concerns or questions. Potential challenges may include patient confusion or language barriers. In such cases, the assistance of a translator or additional explanations may be necessary.
Documentation of the completed procedure
This task involves documenting the completed surgical procedure and associated details. It serves as a permanent record for future reference, research purposes, and legal documentation. The desired result is to have accurate and complete documentation of the surgical procedure. The task requires the use of medical documentation systems or electronic medical records, accurately recording the surgical steps, outcomes, and any relevant findings. Potential challenges may include incomplete or delayed documentation. In such cases, timely completion and verification of the documentation are necessary.
