You and your consultant have decided that you need a procedure/operation. To make sure this can be done safely many patients will have to undergo a pre-assessment.
Pre-assessment is a nurse led clinic and plays an important part in the preparation of your surgery. It includes an assessment of your general health and fitness to assess your suitability for surgery and will identify any specific needs you may have when coming in for your procedure. It will take into account any underlying health conditions you may have.
What to expect from your pre-assessment
As part of the pre-assessment you may be required to complete a medical history questionnaire. You will receive a link by text message to your mobile phone. This questionnaire can be filled in by yourself or by a family member. If you are not able to complete this please let us know and contact us.
An appointment may also be arranged for you to speak to a pre-assessment member of staff about your medical history and to attend pre-assessment to have your height, weight and blood pressure checked. Some patients may also need tests such as blood tests and ECG and will be completed by one of our Clinical Support Workers. This appointment may be sent to you via a text, phone call or by letter and will be completed by one of our clinical support workers.
Why do I need to attend the pre-assessment clinic?
The main aim is to assess your suitability and fitness for surgery and anaesthesia. We may need to organise further investigations for example:
- ECG (heart tracing)
- Taking blood samples
- Pulmonary function tests (breathing tests)
- Advice on support available to stop smoking and weight management.
- Sleep studies
- Diabetic advice
- Pharmacy referral
- Anaesthetic review, if required.
You may be provided with a decolonising body wash and nasal cream to reduce the possibility of post operative infections. Information on how to use this will be provided.