ABSTRACT
Time-out is the pause immediately before a procedure begins to verify the correct patient, site, laterality/digit/spinal level, and system. The Universal Protocol is a collective checklist used to create a safe climate for the patient undergoing a procedure. It has three phases: Pre-procedural activities, time-out performed immediately before incision or procedure begins and a sign-out after the process before leaving the procedure room or area. Pause before anesthesia-related procedures to verify correct patient, patient procedure, and right side. Laterality, digit, or spinal level is verified if applicable. After surgery, a sign-out is done after the procedure has been completed and before the patient is moved to another area. In some cases, the sign-out is done in the same room such as the emergency department.
