The final WHO safe surgery checklist spelled out nineteen checks in all. Before anesthesia, there are seven checks. The team members confirm that the patient (or the patient’s proxy) has personally verified his or her identity and also given consent for the procedure. They make sure that the surgical site is marked and that the pulse oximeter—which monitors oxygen levels—is on the patient and working. They check the patient’s medication allergies. They review the risk of airway problems—the most dangerous aspect of general anesthesia—and that appropriate equipment and assistance for them are
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