Which elements are included in the Joint Commission Universal Protocol?

The Joint Commission Universal Protocol is a comprehensive approach designed to prevent wrong site, wrong procedure, and wrong person surgeries. The correct response includes three key elements: preoperative verification, surgical site marking, and the Time Out process.

Preoperative verification ensures that all necessary information is confirmed before the surgical procedure begins, including the patient's identity, the procedure to be performed, and any relevant medical history or imaging. This critical step mitigates potential misunderstandings or errors regarding the procedure.

Surgical site marking involves clearly indicating the correct site of the surgery on the patient’s body. This visual cue is vital for ensuring the surgical team is aware of the exact site to operate, thereby reducing the risk of wrong site surgery.

The Time Out process is a critical moment just before the procedure starts where the entire surgical team pauses to confirm patient identity, procedure, site, and any other pertinent information. This final check allows for any last-minute corrections and reinforces team communication.

Together, these elements of the Joint Commission Universal Protocol work cohesively to enhance patient safety, confirming that the correct procedure is performed on the correct patient at the correct site. This multifaceted approach is what makes the correct option comprehensive and aligned with the goals of the Universal Protocol.