The Universal Protocol, established in 2003, is applicable to which organizations?

The Universal Protocol was established to enhance patient safety by preventing wrong site, wrong procedure, and wrong person surgeries. It is primarily applicable to organizations accredited by the Joint Commission, which is recognized for setting standards in healthcare quality and safety.

The Joint Commission's accreditation process ensures that hospitals and healthcare organizations meet certain performance standards. By adopting the Universal Protocol, these organizations commit to systematic checks and balances before surgical procedures, thereby minimizing the potential for errors. The protocol includes pre-procedure verification, marking the surgical site, and conducting a time-out immediately before surgery.

While the Universal Protocol is a crucial part of maintaining patient safety, it is important to note that it is not mandated for all hospitals or healthcare facilities nationwide, nor is it limited to specific types of ambulatory care centers or community health clinics. Those organizations must adhere to various other safety practices, but the specificity and accountability of the Universal Protocol are tied to the Joint Commission’s accreditation standards.