How can the perioperative nurse ensure patient safety during transport to the operating room?

Verifying patient identity and the procedure is crucial in ensuring patient safety during transport to the operating room. This step involves confirming that the right patient is being transported and that the correct procedure is set to be performed, which helps to prevent errors such as wrong-site surgery, incorrect procedures, or miscommunication between the surgical team members.

The importance of this process is underscored by protocols such as the Universal Protocol, which emphasizes verification at multiple points throughout the perioperative process. By focusing on these checks, the perioperative nurse acts as a critical safeguard that contributes to a culture of safety within the surgical environment.

While having all staff present can aid in a smooth transfer, it's not as directly related to patient safety regarding correctness in procedures. Preparing surgical instruments is undeniably essential but pertains more to readiness for the procedure rather than immediate safety during transport. Similarly, administering preoperative medications is important for patient comfort and anesthesia preparation, but it does not address the risk of misidentification or procedural errors at this stage of transport.