Surgical Pre Assessment Unit

This unit is located near the main out patients entrance off the Ampthill Road. It is situated just to the right of the main entrance and low level building sign posted Pre assessment.

The centre was officially opened by Mr Skipper in June 2006 and all patients undergoing a surgical procedure - except day cases- will be seen here. The centre is staffed by specialist nurses for pre-operative assessment and a clerical person, with doctors for each speciality attending in turn. The building itself consists of a reception, three consulting rooms and a specialist nurses office as well as W/C facilities.

The purpose of pre-operative assessment is to form a plan of the patients care during and after their intended stay in hospital.

During a pre assessment appointment patients may have a consultation with a pre-assessment nurse and / or doctor - who will take a full medical history. patients will also have their observations taken such as blood pressure. If required patients may need to also have bloods taken and a tracing of their heart rhythm (E.C.G.). patients may also be required to visit other departments to have further investigations performed - such as x-rays. some times a pre assessment appointment may last for up to three hours so bring refreshments!

During a patient’s time in the centre there will be much discussion about the surgery/intervention to be carried out but also most importantly what arrangements are to be made for discharge home following surgery/intervention, for example arranging for a friend or a relative to stay upon returning home.

Some patients like to bring a friend or relative with them for support and company, they are welcome to stay during the pre assessment if you wish.

It is important that all patients that have been sent a pre assessment appointment bring with them all their current medications or a prescription and a urine sample.

Should you need to discuss any issues that you feel are important prior to your assessment - please contact the pre-op centre on the numbers 01234 355122 ext: 5467

Finally if you or a relative/ friend have been invited for a pre operative assessment please try and attend as it serves as an opportunity for the medical staff to find out about you and you to find out about them and your procedure.