Once surgery is planned your surgeon will refer you to the Pre-Surgical Testing Center. A Pre-Surgical Nurse will contact you to determine if you need an appointment for specialized evaluations, preoperative blood tests, and/or diagnostic testing (Electrocardiogram, X-rays, etc). If necessary, an appointment will be scheduled prior to your surgery date. If an appointment is not necessary or you are unable to come for an appointment, you can expect a phone call from a Pre-Surgical Testing Nurse. During this call, the nurse will obtain all necessary medical information in preparation for your surgery.
During this appointment you can expect:
- To meet with a Pre-Surgical Testing Center nurse and complete a nursing assessment. You will be asked to provide names and dosages of all medications you are taking, including prescription, nonprescription, over-the-counter medications, and aspirin. You should also provide names and dosages of any vitamins, herbals, and diet supplements you take on a regular basis.
- To meet with a Nurse Practitioner, if appropriate, to complete a focused anesthesia assessment based on your medical history and/or surgery.
- To provide list of medication allergies and its effects.
- To review and sign consent forms for surgery.
- To receive customized instructions regarding medications to take and medications to stop prior to surgery.
- To be instructed NOT to take ASA/Motrin/NSAIDS/Vitamin E/ Fish oil/Herbals/Diet Supplements for 14 days prior to your surgery.
- To have any required preoperative blood tests and/or diagnostic testing (Electrocardiogram, X-ray, etc.) completed unless test results are brought with you or faxed from your primary care physician/ HMO prior to your appointment. Our fax number is: 202-444-4208.
- To provide the name and phone number of your Primary Care Physician and any Specialists you may see.
- To have the opportunity to have your questions answered.
Pre-Surgical Testing ensures that all necessary medical information is obtained and all preoperative requirements are completed prior to the day of surgery. In the event the Testing Center cannot obtain this information or complete the requirements, your surgeon and/ or anesthesiologist may decide that the safest course is to delay or cancel your surgery.
