What are "checklists" used for at Houston Methodist?

Checklists are utilized at Houston Methodist primarily to promote consistency and safety in complex procedures. In healthcare settings, where the stakes are high and the procedures can be intricate, checklists serve as a systematic way to ensure that all necessary steps are completed, thus minimizing the risk of errors. They help to standardize practices across different teams and shifts, ensuring that everyone adheres to the same protocols and safety measures.

Using checklists reinforces the adherence to best practices and established guidelines, which is crucial in maintaining patient safety and quality of care. When implemented effectively, they can significantly reduce omissions in care and improve overall operational efficiency, creating a more reliable healthcare environment for both staff and patients. This systematic approach is a key part of safety protocols in medical settings, underscoring the importance of consistency in complex healthcare processes.