Surgical Safety Checklist
Table of Contents
Before Induction of Anaesthesia
Has the patient confirmed his/her identity, site, procedure, and consent?
Is the surgical site marked?
Is the anaesthesia machine and medication check complete?
Is the pulse oximeter on the patient and functioning?
Does the patient have a known allergy?
Does the patient have difficult airway or aspiration risk?
Does the patient have Risk of >500ml blood loss (7ml/kg in children)?
Before Skin Incision
Confirm all team members have introduced themselves by name and role.
Confirm the patient's name, procedure, and where the incision will be made.
Has antibiotic prophylaxis been given within the last 60 minutes?
What are the critical or non-routine steps?
How long will the case take?
What is the anticipated blood loss?
Are there any patient-specific concerns?
Has sterility (including indicator results) been confirmed?
Are there equipment issues or any concerns?
Is essential imaging displayed?
Before Patient Leaves Operating Room
Confirm the name of the procedure.
Confirm completion of instrument, sponge and needle counts.
Confirm specimen labelling (read specimen labels aloud, including patient name).
Confirm whether there are any equipment problems to be addressed.
What are the key concerns for recovery and management of this patient?
Download or Print this Surgical Safety Checklist
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Presented by:
John F. Smith
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Views: 22
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Uses: 2
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Tasks: 25
Who it's for
This Surgical Safety Checklist is for anyone who wants a simple, practical way to get things done without missing steps.
- Avoid forgetting - keep all your Surgical Safety essentials in one place (external memory)
- Save time - start from a proven Surgical Safety structure instead of a blank page
- Stay on track - track progress, come back later, and keep momentum
- Coordinate with others - share the list and divide responsibilities
- Learn the process - follow the steps in a sensible order, even if it's your first time
How to use it
How to use this Surgical Safety Checklist
- Save Surgical Safety Checklist to your free Checklist account so your progress is saved and synced across devices.
- Customize it in the app: remove anything that does not apply, then add your own details for Surgical Safety (dates, sizes, addresses, notes).
- If others are involved, invite them to collaborate and divide responsibilities.
- Work through the list: check items off as you go, and set reminders for time-sensitive steps.