What is the Medical term timeout mean?

A medical timeout is a structured process used in healthcare settings to verify essential information and confirm patient safety before performing a high-risk procedure. It involves a brief pause during which members of the healthcare team take a moment to confirm certain details, such as the patient's identity, the procedure to be performed, the correct surgical site, and adherence to any relevant safety protocols.

For example, during a surgical procedure, the team might conduct a timeout before administering anesthesia or making any incisions. This process aims to reduce errors, ensure proper coordination among healthcare providers, and enhance patient safety. Medical timeouts are considered an essential component of safe surgical practices and are commonly implemented in healthcare facilities to minimize the risk of complications.