Prior to moving the patient on the OR table, what consideration is most important?

The most crucial consideration before moving the patient onto the operating room (OR) table involves ensuring the wheels on the stretcher are locked. This step is vital for patient safety; it prevents any accidental movement of the stretcher while transferring the patient, thereby reducing the risk of falls or injuries during the transition to the OR table. A secure and stable platform is necessary when dealing with patients who may be anesthetized, as they may be unable to assist with their own movements and are more vulnerable during transfer.

While checking patient identification, confirming the time of surgery, and ensuring all instruments are in place are also important tasks, they primarily focus on procedural and safety protocols that take place before or during the surgery itself. However, ensuring that the stretcher is secure directly addresses immediate safety concerns during the transfer process, making it a top priority in the pre-operative environment.