Which of the following is a critical step before surgery begins?

Confirming the patient’s identity and surgical procedure is essential to ensure patient safety and to prevent any potential errors that could occur before the surgery. This critical step often involves using a standardized protocol, such as the "time-out" procedure, which includes asking the patient their name, checking their identification wristband, and verifying the surgical site and procedure with the surgical team. This process minimizes the risk of performing the wrong procedure on the wrong patient, which is a significant concern in surgical settings. Ensuring that everyone is on the same page contributes to a safer surgical environment and reinforces communication among the surgical team, leading to better overall patient outcomes.