Preoperative tests are a set of tests that are carried out before you have a planned (sometimes called 'elective') operation. These tests may be done even if you appear to be healthy, to provide information about conditions that could affect the treatment you need.

The tests that you need at your pre-assessment appointment will be determined by your age, your general health, any illnesses you have or any medication you are on, and the type of operation you are going to have. The range of preoperative tests recommended by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) includes:

Full blood count

This is a measure of haemoglobin and the number of other types of cells in the blood. This will be carried out if it is suspected that you may have anaemia, so that additional care can be given during surgery if this is the case.

Blood clotting tests

These tests are carried out to check if your blood clots normally and how long it takes to clot. 

Blood glucose

Blood glucose (HBa1c) this test will be used to tell if you have diabetes before undergoing any major surgery and how well controlled your diabetes is.

Urine test

This test is used to detect certain substances in the urine that may indicate disease, for example glucose in the urine may indicate diabetes.

It can also give an indication of how well the kidneys are working, and detect urinary tract infections.

More information about urine tests can be found on the NHS Choices website here

MRSA swabs

Screening for hospital acquired infection

Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET)

Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) is a non-invasive way of assessing the function of your heart and lungs when dealing with the stress caused by exercise. This is a similar stress to the body as that caused by surgery.

You can find a patient information leaflet about CPET here

Kidney function tests

These involve a variety of tests on both blood and urine samples to determine how well your kidneys are working, and will usually be checked before any major operation.

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

This test is used to detect problems with the heart such as an abnormal heart rhythm. It may be carried out before your operation if you are an older person (over 65) with chest pain or a history of heart disease, if you have a high body mass index or if a smoker over 55 years.

Dental check

For some surgery it is essential you do not have any signs of infection coming from your mouth and teeth, this would include obvious signs of tooth decay, loose teeth. missing fillings or bleeding gums. If your teeth or gums are in poor condition or any teeth are loose, it is advisable to visit your dentist before a planned operation for a check-up and dental assessment. Please alert the Nurse Practitioner and anaesthetist to any loose teeth or dental work before your operation.

If you need help to find a dentist you can use the NHS Choices dental service finder

Sections

• Full blood count
• Blood clotting tests
• Blood glucose
• Urine test
• MRSA Swabs
• Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET)
• Kidney function tests
• Sickle cell test
• Pregnancy test
• Lung function tests
• Electrocardiogram (ECG)
• Dental check

Contact us

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have a question or need to reschedule your appointment.

0114 2266235 or 0114 2266369