Why should a nurse perform a preoperative checklist?

Performing a preoperative checklist is crucial for ensuring that all safety protocols are followed before surgical procedures begin. This process is designed to minimize the risk of complications and errors during surgery. The checklist typically includes verifying patient identification, surgical site marking, allergy checks, confirmation of preoperative orders, and ensuring that all necessary equipment and supplies are available for the procedure.

By systematically going through these items, nurses help ensure that patients receive safe and effective care, that the surgical team is prepared, and that all protocols that safeguard patient welfare are adhered to. This practice aligns with best practices in patient safety and has been shown to significantly reduce the incidence of surgical errors and adverse events.

The other options do not align with the primary objectives of a preoperative checklist, as they focus on unrelated tasks that do not contribute to patient safety or surgical readiness.