How to prepare for surgery: pre-op checklist

There are several things you can do before your operation to help you feel prepared and support a smoother recovery. Use this checklist to guide you through the key steps before surgery.

Before surgery you will be offered an assessment in person or over the phone.

Preparing for surgery involves more than simply turning up on the day. Here is how you can prepare yourself in the weeks and days before your operation to help you feel ready.

1. Attend your pre-operative assessment

Before your operation, you’ll usually be invited to a pre-operative (pre-op) assessment. This appointment helps your healthcare team make sure you’re fit for surgery and identify anything that could affect your treatment or recovery.

During your appointment, you may:

• Discuss your medical history and any allergies.

• Have your height, weight, and blood pressure checked.

• Undergo blood tests, an ECG, or other tests if needed.

• Meet your anaesthetist or specialist nurse.

• Be given instructions about eating, drinking, and taking your medication before surgery.

Use this appointment to ask any questions you have about your operation, anaesthetic or recovery.

2. Tell your healthcare team about your medicines

Some medicines and supplements can affect your surgery or increase the risk of complications, so it’s important to tell your healthcare team about everything you take. This includes prescription medicines, over-the-counter painkillers, vitamins and herbal remedies.

You may be advised to temporarily stop taking certain medicines, such as blood thinners or some diabetes medications, before your operation.

3. Improve your health

Looking after your health before surgery can reduce the risk of complications and help you recover more quickly afterwards.

If you smoke, stopping smoking before surgery can improve wound healing and lower your risk of chest infections. Eating a balanced diet, staying as active as you’re able, and limiting alcohol can also support your recovery.

If you have overweight, losing weight before your operation may reduce the risk of complications. Speak to your healthcare team about whether this is appropriate for you and avoid starting a restrictive diet without medical advice, particularly if your surgery is soon.

4. Follow your fasting instructions

If you’re having a general anaesthetic or sedation, you’ll usually need to stop eating and drinking for a certain amount of time before your operation. This reduces the risk of food or liquid entering your lungs while you’re under anaesthetic.

Your hospital will tell you exactly when to stop eating and drinking, so it’s important to follow these instructions carefully. If you accidentally eat or drink after the advised time, let your healthcare team know as your operation may need to be postponed.

5. Prepare your home for recovery

Planning ahead before your operation can make your recovery much easier once you’re back home. Think about what you’ll need during the first few days or weeks, especially if your movement is likely to be limited.

6. Prepare yourself mentally

It’s completely normal to feel anxious before surgery. Understanding what will happen before, during, and after your operation can help you feel more prepared and in control.

If you have concerns, don’t be afraid to ask your healthcare team questions. They can explain the procedure, discuss the benefits and risks, and tell you what to expect during your recovery.

Some people also find relaxation techniques, mindfulness, or talking to friends and family helpful in the days leading up to surgery.

7. Pack your hospital bag

If you’re staying in hospital overnight, or you’re not sure how long you’ll be there, it’s a good idea to pack your bag in advance. Having everything ready can help reduce stress on the day of your operation.

Although every operation is different, you’ll usually go through the same basic steps on the day of your surgery:

After your operation, you’ll be taken to a recovery area where you will will be monitored by hospital staff as the anaesthetic wears off. They’ll check your breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, and pain levels, and make sure you’re recovering safely before you’re moved to a ward or discharged home.

If you’ve had a day-case procedure, you may be able to go home the same day once your healthcare team is happy you’re well enough. For more complex operations, you may need to stay in hospital for one or more nights.

Before you leave, you’ll be given advice on caring for your wound, managing pain, taking any prescribed medication, and when you can return to normal activities.

If you’ve had a general anaesthetic or sedation, you won’t be able to drive yourself home, so you’ll need to arrange for someone to collect you. If this isn’t possible, speak to your hospital before your operation, as they may be able to help arrange transport.

Your healthcare team may also recommend that a responsible adult stays with you for the first 24 hours after you return home.

Every operation and recovery is different, so if you’re unsure about any part of your care, don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare team for advice that’s specific to you.