Are operating room distractions, interruptions, and disruptions associated with performance and patient safety? A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Mcmullan RD, Urwin R, Gates PJ, et al. Are operating room distractions, interruptions and disruptions associated with performance and patient safety? A systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Qual Health Care. 2021;33(2):mzab068. doi:10.1093/intqhc/mzab068.
Distractions in the operating room are common and can lead to errors. This systematic review including 27 studies found that distractions, interruptions, and disruptions in the operating room are associated with a range of negative outcomes. These include longer operative duration, impaired team performance, self-reported errors by colleagues, surgical errors, surgical site infections, and fewer patient safety checks.