Question

A 56 yr old female is scheduled for a right-sided breast mastectomy. When addressing prevention of surgical error, which statement is most accurate related to best practice?

1) The surgeon should mark the surgical site clearly before the procedure
2) The surgeon should use proper sterilization techniques during the procedure
3) The anesthesiologist should monitor the patient's vital signs throughout the procedure
4) The nurse should perform a time out before the procedure begins

Answer 1

The best practice for preventing surgical error in the case of a mastectomy is for the nurse to conduct a time out prior to the beginning of the procedure, ensuring confirmation of essential details by the medical team.

Step-by-step explanation:

When addressing prevention of surgical error for a 56-year-old female scheduled for a right-sided breast mastectomy, the most accurate statement related to best practice is that the nurse should perform a time out before the procedure begins. This surgical safety protocol includes the surgeon, nurse, and anesthesia professional collectively confirming critical details aloud, such as patient identity, surgical site, and the procedure to be performed. The practice ensures team preparedness and addresses concerns regarding recovery and care for the patient, including the verification of sterilization, equipment availability, and the administration of prophylactic antibiotics.