Principles of surgical care: preoperative care

Abstract

This article discusses the care of people prior to their undergoing a surgical procedure. For many, the thought of having to undergo surgery can cause distress and anxiety. The healthcare assistant and assistant practitioner (HCA and AP), understanding the issues that people may face, are in an ideal position to offer support to patients, both from a physical and a psychological perspective. This article outlines the principles of preoperative care, describing the categories and types of surgery. There is a discussion regarding the concerns that patients might have prior to surgery, preoperative information-giving and teaching and the importance of a preoperative checklist.