Welcome to our lesson on the "Time Out". ​ The "Time Out" is a critical step in the surgical process that ensures the safety of the patient and the success of the surgery. It is a brief pause before the surgery begins where the entire surgical team comes together to review important information and confirm that everything is ready to proceed. ​ During the "Time Out," the team will typically review the patient's medical history and allergies, confirm the patient's identity, confirm the correct site for the surgery, and review the surgical plan. The "Time Out" is also an opportunity for the team to ask any last-minute questions or raise any concerns before proceeding with the surgery. ​ It is important for all members of the surgical team to participate in the "Time Out" and to be attentive and focused during this brief pause. By following the "Time Out" process, the team can ensure that they have all the necessary information and are fully prepared to proceed with the surgery. ​ In summary, the "Time Out" is a critical step in the surgical process that helps to ensure patient safety and the success of the surgery. It is important for all members of the surgical team to participate and be focused during this brief pause. ​ The most important thing for you to remember is to stay silent during the “Time Out”. Perfect communication is absolutely vital during this step, and you will suffer consequences if you interrupt it without good reason such as voicing a concern. ​ Please see the WHO's surgical safety checklist attached at the bottom of this lesson's page. It is used by most theatres in the UK and is very important to understand.