Preoperative screening by Duke Anesthesiology assesses patients before surgery -- and greatly enhances patient safety by identifying potential problems before they manifest. It provides us with a whole picture of the patient's health.

You can expect measurement of your vital signs (heart rate, temperature, blood pressure and respiratory rate), an interview with a nurse clinician, and blood work. An EKG and/or a chest x-ray may also be done. We will perform additional tests based on your history, your physical condition, and the needs of the surgical procedure.

You will also get instructions about when to eat and what medicines to take before surgery. Please tell the staff if you take any type of diabetic or blood thinning medication, especially coumadin or clopidogrel (Plavix).

Preoperative Visit

Anesthesia and surgery affect your entire system, so it is important for us to know as much about you as possible. During a preoperative visit, we will carefully evaluate you and will inquire about your recent medications.

In addition, we will inform you about the procedures associated with your surgery, discuss the anesthetic choices, order appropriate laboratory tests, and prescribe medication for you, if needed, before your operation.

If you have not met one of our anesthesiologists during a preoperative interview, you will meet immediately before your surgery. At this time, we will review your entire medical chart for a clear understanding of your needs and medical condition.

Locations

This service is available at:

• Duke Ambulatory Surgery Center
  2400 Pratt Street, Durham, NC 27710
• Duke Raleigh Hospital
  3400 Wake Forest Road, Raleigh, NC 27609
• Duke University Hospital
  2301 Erwin Road, Durham, NC 27710
• Durham Regional Hospital
  3643 Roxboro Road, Durham, NC 27704