What procedures fall within the scope of the Universal Protocol?
This Protocol and its Implementation Guidelines apply to all operative and other invasive procedures that expose patients to more than minimal risk, including procedures done in settings other than the operating room such as a special procedures unit, endoscopy unit, or interventional radiology suite. Certain routine “minor” procedures such as venipuncture, peripheral IV line placement, insertion of NG tube, or Foley catheter insertion are not within the scope of the Protocol. However, most other procedures that involve puncture or incision of the skin, or insertion of an instrument or foreign material into the body, including, but not limited to, percutaneous aspirations, biopsies, cardiac and vascular catheterizations, and endoscopies are within the scope of this Protocol.
