Prior to your surgery you will need to go to hospital for a pre-assessment. This will involve meeting a nurse and possibly a doctor who will complete your admission paperwork and record your blood pressure, weight and temperature. Hospitals take a pro-active approach in reducing infection so pre-admission swabs will be taken. At this point any questions you may have regarding your admission will be answered.

The doctor/nurse will go through your medical history and undertake any investigations that they may feel necessary. These could include doing a blood test, having an E.C.G., a chest x-ray or photographs taken. Details of your operation will be explained to you. It may also be discussed with you whether you smoke or not. If you do smoke you may be advised to stop prior to surgery taking place.

Take time to look at a very good leaflet: “Stop Before your Op”. ( www.gasp.org.uk )

Other sites to look at are:

www.gosmokefree.co.uk

www.quit.org.uk

www.ash.org.uk

Ring the NHS Smoking Helpline: 0800 169 0169 (England)

Finally, it is important to bring a list of the medications you are taking.