The purpose of this study guide and accompanying video is to promote positive patient outcomes and enhance patient and health care worker safety through the building of effective teams and the implementation of team strategies in the perioperative setting. This learning activity will focus on the perioperative environment, but much of the knowledge and many of the skills described will be applicable to other health care settings.

After viewing the video and completing the study guide, participants will be able to:

• Describe the effects of communication and teamwork on patient safety
• Explain how leadership and communication contribute to effective teams
• Implement protocols for effective team briefings
• Empower team members to be assertive patient advocates
• Develop strategies to implement team-oriented tools in their settings