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Your Pre-Assessment Clinic Visit : Preparing You for Your Procedure

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This post explains what to expect from your pre-assessment clinic appointment. This important step helps us ensure you're as safe and well-prepared as possible for your upcoming procedure.

What is the Pre-Assessment Clinic?

The pre-assessment clinic is a specialised service designed to evaluate your overall health and fitness before a surgical procedure or other medical intervention. Our goal is to optimise your safety and improve your recovery.

Why is Pre-Assessment Important?

During your pre-assessment, we aim to:

  • Assess Your Fitness: Determine if you are medically fit for surgery and anaesthesia.
  • Identify and Address Concerns: Uncover and manage any existing medical conditions that could affect your procedure.
  • Provide Information & Education: Ensure you understand your treatment plan, recovery process, and what to expect.
  • Reduce Anxiety: Answer your questions and address any concerns you may have.
  • Optimise Your Health: Help you make any necessary lifestyle adjustments to improve your overall health before surgery.

What Happens During Your Pre-Assessment?

Your appointment will involve two main parts: a review of your medical history and a physical examination.

1. Medical History Review:

We're interested in learning about:

  • Current and Past Medical Conditions: Any illnesses or conditions you're currently managing or have experienced in the past.
  • Previous Surgeries & Anaesthesia Experiences: Details of any previous surgical procedures and how you responded to anaesthesia.
  • Medications: A complete list of all medications you take, including dosages and frequency.
  • Allergies & Adverse Reactions: Any allergies you have, including reactions to medications, food, or other substances.
  • Lifestyle Factors: Information about your smoking habits, alcohol consumption, and any other relevant lifestyle factors.

2. Physical Examination:

This examination will focus on:

  • Vital Signs: Measuring your blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, weight, and height.
  • Cardiovascular Assessment: Examining your heart and, if necessary, performing an electrocardiogram (ECG).
  • Respiratory Evaluation: Assessing your lungs and breathing.
  • Airway Assessment: Evaluating your airway, which is particularly important for anaesthesia planning.
  • Other Systems: Examining other relevant body systems based on your individual medical history and the nature of your procedure.

What to Bring to Your Appointment

To help us provide the best possible care, please bring the following:

  • List of Medications: A detailed list of all current medications, including dosages and frequency.
  • Recent Test Results: Any recent blood tests, X-rays, scans, or other relevant medical records.
  • GP Summary/Medical Records: If possible, a summary of your medical history from your general practitioner.
  • Medical Alert Cards/Implant Documentation: Any cards or documentation related to medical alerts or implanted devices (e.g., pacemakers).
  • List of Questions: A list of any questions you have about your procedure or recovery.

Preparing for Your Appointment

  • Wear Comfortable Clothing: Choose loose-fitting clothing that allows for easy examination.
  • Avoid Oils/Moisturisers: Refrain from using oils or moisturisers on the day of your appointment.
  • Bring a Support Person (Optional): You are welcome to bring one support person to your appointment.
  • Avoid Bringing Young Children: If possible, please arrange for childcare.

What You'll Learn

During your pre-assessment, you'll receive information about:

  • The details of your procedure and available anaesthesia options.
  • Pre-operative instructions, including fasting guidelines.
  • Medication management – which medications to stop or continue.
  • Post-operative care and recovery expectations.
  • Pain management strategies.
  • Discharge planning and home care arrangements.
  • Emergency contact information.

We're committed to ensuring you understand the risks, benefits, and alternatives to your procedure. You'll have ample opportunity to ask questions, voice concerns, and consider your options without feeling pressured.

Important Reminders

  • Honesty is Crucial: Please provide complete and accurate medical information.
  • Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to ask any questions, no matter how small they may seem.
  • Follow Instructions: Adhering to our guidelines is essential for your safety.
  • Stay Informed: Keep us updated on any changes to your health status.
  • Plan Ahead: Arrange for transportation and post-operative care in advance.