ABSTRACT
Thorough pre-operative assessment has been proven to improve outcome and reduce post-operative length of stay. Every patient must be assessed prior to the administration of anaesthesia for several reasons:
= to ascertain the most appropriate anaesthetic technique to use; = to explain the anaesthetic technique to the patient; = to identify underlying conditions that would increase the patient’s
peri-operative risk; = to discuss pre-, peri-and post-operative risks with the patient; = to reassure the patient; = to obtain informed consent.
