This checklist has been adapted from the World Health Organization Surgical Safety Checklist by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons in consultation with the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists, the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists, the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, the Australian College of Operating Room Nurses and the Perioperative Nurses College of the New Zealand Nurses Organisation; it is not intended to be comprehensive, additions and modifications to fit local practice are encouraged. (Oct 09)