Dr who? Names on NHS surgery caps can save lives

Operating teams from around the country have posted selfies in support of the idea
Operating teams from around the country have posted selfies in support of the idea

A social media campaign is urging operating theatre staff to write their name and job on their hat to improve patient safety.

It could save “vital moments” in life or death situations, supporters say, by making sure the team is not hampered by the awkward realisation they cannot remember their colleagues’ names.

There was confusion about who was being asked to perform certain tasks
There was confusion about who was being asked to perform certain tasks

The Royal College of Surgeons has backed the idea, saying it could combat unconscious bias that meant people who did not look like a “traditional surgeon” are mistaken for other staff. Under the title #theatrecapchallenge, NHS staff are posting selfies with their name and role scribbled on their caps.

It has been headed by Rob Hackett, an anaesthetist from Sydney. He said: “I’ve heard of medical students mistaken for senior trainees then instructed