IMPACTS: timeout mnemonic pre-procedure (your smooth professional timeout impacts everything)

Procedure Timeout Mnemonic: This mnemonic covers the key elements to verify before starting, ensuring patient safety and team communication. Here's what **IMPACTS** stands for: 1. **I – Identify**: - **Verify the Patient's Identity**: Confirm the patient's full name, date of birth, and medical record number using their wristband and verbally with the patient if possible. 2. **M – Match the Procedure**: - **Verify the Procedure Being Done**: State the exact name of the procedure to be performed. Ensure the team agrees, and that it matches the consent form and the patient's understanding. 3. **P – Position and Site**: - **Verify the Correct Site, Side, and Patient Positioning**: - Mark the **correct site** and **laterality** if applicable (e.g., right arm, left knee). - Confirm the patient's **positioning** on the table (supine, prone) to avoid confusion during the procedure. 4. **A – Allergies**: - **Confirm Allergies**: Double-check any known allergies (medications, latex, iodine) and ensure the team is aware so appropriate precautions can be taken. 5. **C – Consent**: - **Verify Consent**: Ensure that **informed consent** has been obtained, signed, and documented. Confirm that the patient or guardian understands the risks, benefits, and alternatives to the procedure. 6. **T – Tools and Equipment**: - **Check Equipment and Instruments**: Make sure all necessary instruments, tools, and medications are prepared, functional, and sterile. Have backup supplies ready as well. 7. **S – Staff Roles and Safety Concerns**: - **Assign and Confirm Roles**: Ensure each team member knows their specific role during the procedure. - **State Safety Concerns**: Allow a moment for the team to voice any concerns or potential issues before proceeding. Using **IMPACTS** ensures that all the critical components are reviewed before starting a procedure, enhancing both patient safety and team coordination.