Checklists in surgery

Surgical checklists are organized lists of important steps and safety measures used before, during, and after surgery to ensure everything goes smoothly. They help the surgical team verify patient identity, confirm necessary equipment and supplies, and review the procedure plan. This process reduces errors, enhances communication, and improves patient safety. Think of it as a detailed safety plan that ensures nothing is overlooked, much like a pre-flight checklist for pilots. Implementing checklists has been shown to significantly decrease surgical complications and improve overall outcomes.