The team reviews your health, previous anaesthesia, allergies, medicines and tests.
Key points
- Provide your health history and a complete medicine list.
- Obtain individual instructions for medicines, eating and drinking.
- Arrange transport, support and follow-up before the operation.
On this page
Start with the pre-assessment
Tell them about prescribed treatments, non-prescription products, vitamins and herbal supplements. The required investigations depend on the procedure and your health.[1]
Confirm preparation in writing
Ask which medicines to take, stop or adjust and who has authorised any change. Confirm fasting instructions, including what counts as food or a permitted drink, and contact the team if anything is unclear.
Organise the practical details
Check the admission time, location, documents, accompaniment and transport. Ask what support you may need afterwards and whether you need to stay close to the facility for reviews.
Tell the team if you become unwell
New fever, infection symptoms or another change before the operation should be reported. Ask whom to contact if the appointment cannot go ahead and how to rearrange the plan.
Related planning guides
Sources
[1] NHS: Before surgery · ↑ Back to text
Editorial update: 25 October 2026. Information for planning and discussion; follow your own treating team’s instructions.