There is more to surgery than just setting a date for the procedure. One of the most crucial is your pre-op lab visit. This is a pre-surgery check-up to make sure your body is ready for surgery and able to tolerate being put to sleep (anesthesia). Understanding what’s coming can help calm your nerves and ensure things go smoothly.
While it might not all be absolutely necessary, why The Pre-Op Lab Visit?
Your doctor wants to make sure you’re healthy before the surgery. Be sure to go to pre-op lab ahead of time to understand if there are any issues with your body. It gives the medical team an opportunity to catch any problems early and compact the risk of complications.
Common Tests You May Receive
During your visit there are going to be a certain number of basic lab tests depending on age, health history and the type of surgery that you will have. These often include:
- Blood tests to screen for anemia, infections, or problems with blood sugar
- Urine tests for infections or issues with the kidneys
- EKG to see how your heart is working
- X-ray of the chest- if the suspicion is for lung evaluation.
These tests set a baseline and assist in individualizing the safest course of action for your procedure.
How to prepare for your lab visit
Before the appointment, be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions. You may be asked to:
- No eating or drinking several hours before the bloodwork
- Include medications and supplements you take
- You must bring a photo ID and your insurance information.
- Let the lab know if you have any allergies or prior surgical responses
This preparation is necessary to obtain accurate and complete results.
What Takes Place During the Visit?
When you get there, a nurse or technician will review your medical history. They might inquire about previous surgeries, medications or current symptoms. Your blood and urine samples will be taken next. Any additional tests that are needed will also be done the same day or scheduled appropriately.
The procedure is typically short, between 30 minutes and one hour. Most results are accessible within a few days, and your surgeon will look over the results before moving forward.
Tips to Make the Visit Easier
Here are some tips for staying comfortable and relaxed:
- Wear loose fitting, short-sleeved clothing that will allow for a blood draw.
- Keep hydrated - unless fasting is necessary.
- Pack a snack for after your massage
- If you don’t know, ask the question
Being prepared can have a huge impact on your overall experience.
Local Pre-Op Services
If you are planning to have an operation in Nevada, there are a lot of trustable institutes in Nevada that will provide you with individuals who will conduct a Pre op Las Vegas and provide you with timely results. Avoid delays – Always consider a lab that meshes well with your surgical team.
Furthermore, Pre-op clearance Las Vegas clinics usually provide patients an easy way out of the standard bureaucratic process involved in being tested and evaluated, helping patients who need to get through the assessment process faster.
Final Thoughts
A pre-op lab stop – Measurements are part of surgical prep and completion. It provides your health care team with the details they need to keep you safe. With the requisite preparation and knowledge, your trip do not have to be stressful and uncomfortable. Keep the lines of communication open with your doctor, and follow directions closely.
