Preparing for an operation is more than arriving at hospital on time. A careful preoperative assessment, a clear medication plan and practical arrangements at home can make treatment safer and recovery smoother.
What happens at the preoperative assessment?
Your team reviews the reason for surgery, previous operations, medical conditions, allergies, current medicines and any previous problems with anaesthesia. Blood tests, an ECG or other investigations are requested when they are likely to affect care—not automatically for every patient.
What should I tell the surgical team?
Mention all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, supplements, anticoagulants, diabetes medicines, allergies, smoking, alcohol use and possible pregnancy. Tell the team about sleep apnoea, heart or lung disease, recent infection and any change in your health.
Should I stop eating and drinking?
Follow the fasting instructions given by your anaesthetic team. Clear fluids may be permitted closer to surgery than solid food in many pathways, but the exact rules depend on your procedure and health. Do not guess or follow another patient’s instructions.
How can I improve my condition before surgery?
Stopping smoking, optimising diabetes and blood pressure, maintaining nutrition and gentle activity, and treating infections may reduce complications. For major surgery, your team may recommend a structured prehabilitation programme.
What should I arrange at home?
Plan transport, help during the first day after anaesthesia, access to regular medicines and a comfortable recovery space. Ask about expected hospital stay, lifting restrictions, time off work and who to contact after discharge.
What happens on the day of surgery?
Your identity, procedure, consent, allergies and relevant test results are checked. The anaesthetic and surgical teams explain the immediate plan. You may receive measures to prevent blood clots and nausea according to your individual risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take my usual morning tablets?
Only as directed by your anaesthetic or surgical team; some medicines must be continued and others adjusted.
What if I develop a fever or cough?
Contact the hospital before travelling; the team will decide whether surgery should proceed.
The key message
Good preparation is individualised: know your operation, follow the medication and fasting plan, and raise concerns before the day of surgery.
This article provides general patient education and does not replace individual medical assessment, informed consent or advice from your treating team. Treatment decisions depend on your circumstances.
Dr. Alassaf is a leading expert in minimally invasive and bariatric surgery, with extensive experience helping patients overcome obesity and related conditions. Having completed advanced training in Australia and the Middle East, he is known for his compassionate approach and evidence-based surgical care.
Provides comprehensive Upper Gastrointestinal & Weight Loss Surgery across Jordan.
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