What must be anticipated and prevented before transport?

Anticipating and preventing deterioration requiring en route intervention is crucial before transport because it directly impacts patient safety and outcomes. When a patient is being transported, whether it's from one medical facility to another or to a different location for procedures, their condition can change rapidly. Proper preparation involves assessing the patient’s current medical status, identifying potential risks for decline, and having strategies in place to address these issues immediately if they arise.

By preparing for potential deterioration, medical personnel can ensure that they have the necessary equipment, medications, and trained staff available during transport. This proactive approach helps mitigate risks and can significantly enhance the patient's chance of a successful outcome upon arrival at their destination.

In contrast, while patient comfort measures, family communications, and future medical needs are important considerations, they do not directly address the immediate and critical requirement to maintain the patient’s stability throughout the transport process. These considerations typically play a supportive role but do not replace the need for a focus on preventing deterioration.