Preoperative assessment
Getting ready for your operation, so that your anaesthetic is as safe and smooth as possible.
Preparing you for surgery
Before your operation you will have a preoperative assessment. This may be a questionnaire, a telephone call or an appointment at the hospital. It checks that you are as fit as possible for your anaesthetic and surgery, and gives you a chance to ask questions.
Depending on your health and your operation, you may need blood tests, an ECG or other investigations. If you have a long-term condition, we may suggest ways to get it under better control before surgery.
Please tell us if you
- Have heart or lung problems, including asthma or sleep apnoea
- Have diabetes, high blood pressure or kidney disease
- Take weight loss injections, such as Mounjaro (tirzepatide), Wegovy or Ozempic (semaglutide) or Saxenda (liraglutide). These slow down how quickly your stomach empties, which matters for your anaesthetic.
- Take blood thinners, such as warfarin, apixaban, rivaroxaban, edoxaban, dabigatran, aspirin or clopidogrel
- Are allergic to any medicines, latex or foods
- Have had problems with an anaesthetic before, or have a family history of them
- Have loose teeth, crowns, caps or dentures
- Might be pregnant
Don't stop weight loss injections or blood thinners on your own. We'll tell you whether to stop them before your operation, and when.
Things you can do
Bring your medicines
Bring all your medicines in their boxes, or an up-to-date list. You will be told which to take on the day and which to stop.
Stop smoking
Stopping smoking, even for a few days before surgery, lowers the risk of chest and wound problems.
Keep active
Walking and staying active in the weeks before your operation helps you recover faster.
Cut down on alcohol
Reducing alcohol before surgery lowers the risk of complications.
Follow fasting advice
Follow the fasting instructions from your hospital exactly. See the guide below.
Arrange a lift home
After a general anaesthetic or sedation you will need a responsible adult to take you home and stay with you.
Eating and drinking before your operation
Your stomach needs to be empty to reduce the risk of being sick during the anaesthetic. Typical guidance for adults is below.
| What | Stop | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Food, milk and milky drinks | 6 hours before | Includes chewing gum and sweets |
| Clear fluids | 2 hours before | Water, squash, black tea or coffee without milk |
| Your usual medicines | As advised | Take with a sip of water unless told otherwise |
Always follow the specific instructions from your hospital, as they may differ from this guide.