preoperative

Preoperative refers to the period before a planned surgical procedure and to the evaluations and preparations conducted to minimize risk and optimize outcomes. It typically involves medical assessment, testing when indicated, medication management, and patient education.

Assessment and risk: A clinician reviews medical history, comorbidities, prior anesthesia experiences, allergies, and current medications. A physical examination and selected tests (such as basic labs, electrocardiography, or imaging) help determine anesthesia risk and whether optimization is needed. Risk stratification often uses tools like the ASA physical status classification.

Optimization and testing: Chronic conditions may be stabilized or optimized, and medications may be adjusted or withheld according to protocol. Examples include management of diabetes, hypertension, and anemia, as well as guidance on anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents. Smoking cessation, nutrition optimization, and, for some patients, prehabilitation or targeted therapies may be advised to improve surgical resilience.

Instructions and logistics: Patients receive instructions on fasting (NPO guidelines), medication management on the day of surgery, and what to bring to the hospital. Documentation typically includes informed consent and a preoperative checklist. Coordination with the surgical and anesthesia teams ensures planning for anesthesia type, anticipated recovery, and postoperative care.

Scope and variations: Preoperative care varies by procedure, patient age, and care setting (outpatient versus inpatient). The overarching goal is to promote safe anesthesia, minimize perioperative risk, and support efficient, orderly postoperative recovery.