Q. Sometimes our surgeons are running multiple rooms. We are preparing, positioning and anesthetizing one patient while the surgeon finishes the previous case. In this situation, is it okay for the rest of the team to conduct the time-out without the surgeon?
A. The ultimate goal of the Universal Protocol is to increase patient safety. In recognition of the critical role of the surgeon, or individual performing procedures, as part of the procedure team, it is not allowable to conduct the time-out without him or her present.