Hospital Valuables Management During Surgery

Standard protocol for patient valuables during surgery:

• Pre-op: Patient advised to leave valuables at home.
• If brought: Staff inventories items; patient signs acknowledgment.
• Storage: Locked safe, sealed tamper-evident bag, or secure locker—varies by facility.
• Tracking: Numbered tag system or electronic log.
• Return: Items returned post-op after patient is alert and identity verified.

Hospitals disclaim liability for unsecured personal items. Best practice: leave jewelry, cash, electronics with a trusted contact or at home.