What should be documented before transferring a patient to the OR table?

Documenting informed consent and preoperative assessments is crucial before transferring a patient to the operating room (OR) table. Informed consent ensures that the patient has been adequately informed about the surgery, including potential risks, benefits, and alternatives. This documentation protects both the patient and the healthcare provider by confirming that the patient has agreed to the procedure based on a clear understanding.

Preoperative assessments include critical information such as the patient’s medical history, current medications, allergies, and any pre-existing conditions that could affect the surgery or recovery process. This data allows the surgical team to be prepared for any special considerations related to the patient's health status, which is essential for patient safety and effective perioperative care.

This combination of documentation provides a comprehensive overview of the patient’s readiness for surgery, facilitating communication among the surgical team and ensuring that all necessary precautions are taken prior to the procedure.