Abstract
Objective: To describe the perception of the nursing staff working in the operating room in relation to compliance with filling out the surgical checklist. Methods: This is an investigative-descriptive study, supported by a qualitative approach, carried out in a public hospital in Northern Brazil. The sample consisted of 33 professional nurses, nursing technicians and surgical instrumentators. Results: From the content analysis, the results were grouped into three categories: The meanings attributed by the nursing team regarding the use of the checklist, difficulties faced for its implementation and the importance of the qualification of the team and the use of the surgical checklist. Reports show that the use of the checklist is a powerful strategy to avoid surgical errors and reduce harm to patients, however, they are barriers to communication failures, medical team resistance and work overload. Conclusion: In-service qualification through continuing health education involving the multidisciplinary team is strategic to raise awareness of the correct use of this instrument. It is necessary to improve teamwork, as the application of the checklist for safe surgery strengthens interpersonal communication, minimizes errors and provides a safe environment.