BOPDHB Patient Resources Hip and Knee joint replacement book - June 2016 | Page 16

Before coming to hospital

Pre-assessment Clinic - nurse
The Pre-assessment Nurse will ask you about your general
health, medical history, previous anaesthetics and if there
were any problems. Please bring this book and all your current
medications in their original packaging with you.
It is important that you are assessed prior to your operation to
minimise the risks associated with your surgery. Most people will
have their first assessment for their fitness for surgery with the
Pre-assessment Nurse in a specialist pre-assessment clinic. This
clinic typically takes place soon after you have seen the Specialist
(Surgeon) in the clinic. It may even occur the same day.
A record will be made of any family history of anaesthetic problems,
medicines, pills, inhalers or alternative medications that you use
allergies, smoking, alcohol and whether you have any loose,
capped or crowned teeth. You may have investigations such as
blood tests, a heart trace (ECG), urine tests and X-rays. This helps
your anaesthetist consider any medical problems which may either
affect the risks to yourself or the likelihood of complications from
the anaesthetic or surgery.
The Pre-assessment Nurse will give you time to ask questions
about any possible problems and give advice and education on
your hospital stay and activities following your surgery.

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