What is a common reason for surgical delay?

A common reason for surgical delay is incomplete preoperative evaluations. Thorough preoperative assessments are crucial to ensure that patients are physically prepared for surgery, which includes evaluating their medical history, current medications, allergies, and any other factors that could affect the surgical procedure. If this evaluation is not completed adequately, it can lead to unexpected complications or the need for additional tests, necessitating a postponement of the surgery to ensure the patient's safety and optimal outcomes.

The other options do not typically contribute significantly to surgical delays. For example, excessive surgical staff availability would generally be beneficial as it allows for better support during the procedure. Late arrival of surgical instruments can cause delays, but it is less common compared to issues surrounding patient evaluation. High patient turnover rates might imply a busy surgical department but are not inherently a reason for delays; rather, they may indicate efficient scheduling and management practices.