Patients sometimes have to go through medical procedures to get the care they need. Whether they’re going through a diagnostic procedure, surgery or any other procedure, it’s critical that the proper one is done to the correct patient.
One way they do this is by using time-outs. This is a pause that healthcare professionals take before a surgery or any other procedure. The team goes over the details of the case so everyone knows what’s going on. This helps to prevent potential errors.
Why is a medical time-out important?
The primary purpose of a medical time-out is patient safety. During a medical time-out, your healthcare team reviews several details out loud. This typically includes your name, the procedure being performed and the surgical site.
They may also verify any relevant medical history or allergies. Everyone involved in your care stops to listen, confirm and agree that all the details are correct before proceeding.
What is your role in a medical time-out?
While the medical time-out is primarily for the healthcare team, you can also play a role. If you’re conscious and aware, feel free to speak up if something doesn’t seem right or if you have any last-minute questions. Your involvement can add an extra layer of safety to the process.
A medical time-out is a simple yet powerful step in ensuring your procedure goes as smoothly as possible. Unfortunately, there’s still a chance that an issue will occur. If medical malpractice or negligence occurs, you may opt to pursue a legal claim.