The Q-Check syringe tray is a proven tool that makes double-checking possible in the operating room in just two simple steps. Below these steps are described.
First, make sure that the Q-Check is positioned in the OR in a way that makes the text on the label legible. In addition, executing the double-check should always be carried out by two people.
Step 1: Double-check during preparation of medication
For complete anaesthesia or for maintaining it, the anaesthetic nurse prepares the anaesthetic medication with a colleague*. The medicine concerned is passed by a colleague and after verification drawn up in the syringe. In all cases the syringe needs to be labeled with the medication name and dose. When a syringe is ready it is being lay out on the Q-Check and the corresponding ampoule is placed in the holder behind the syringe.
Step 2: Double-check before administering medication
Before administering the drugs to a patient, the anaesthesiologist/ anaesthesia assistant checks of the label correspond with the matching ampoule and he/she disposes the empty and checked ampoules in the glass container. This check can eventually be carried out by a operation assistant.
The anaesthesia assistant or anaesthesiologist should administer the medication immediately after executing above steps.
* This can be an anaesthesiologist, anaesthesia assistant, surgeon's assistant or a circulation nurse.