Factsheets Preoperative procedures

Introduction 

This factsheet will look at some of the tests and procedures a person can expect before their operation.  These tests will usually be carried out on a separate day one or two weeks before the day of the operation.

There may be frequent and lengthy hospital visits with time spent in waiting rooms.  It may be hard to keep people occupied in waiting rooms, so it is important to take magazines or a personal stereo to make waiting less boring.  

The person will usually have several tests to assess if it is safe for them to have a general anaesthetic.  Some people with learning disabilities will be wary of some or all of these tests, so staff or family carers need to be aware of them and prepare the individual appropriately. 

Tests usually include:

• A urine sample - the person will be asked to urinate into a jar or small bottle.  If the person needs help to do this, having a supporter of the same sex may make it less embarrassing.
• Blood tests. These can hurt and involve needles that frighten many people.  If the individual is likely to get very distressed by a blood test, it may be best to ask for this test to be done at the end of the pre-operative visit.
• Blood pressure test. These usually involves a strap being wrapped around the arm with air being pumped into the strap.  This does not normally hurt, but it can feel strange.
• A cardiogram. This requires sticky pads being attached to the person’s bare chest, which are wired to a machine that measures the heart rate.  If female service users need support, female staff or relatives should accompany them.  At the end of the test the pads are pulled off.  This can hurt - especially when people have hairy chests.
• An eye examination
  • Biometry - for some eye surgery a test called biometry is usually performed at the pre-op.  This involves a machine taking photographs of the inside of the eye.  The eye doctor will move the machine close to the eye, eventually touching the eyeball, which some people will find uncomfortable.
  • Eye drops - in order to examine the eye thoroughly eye drops will need to be administered.  These may sting and vision may be blurred for some hours after this.

These tests are important to monitor the individual’s safety while under anaesthetic, and should be done if possible.  There are greater risks involved in surgery if this information is not available. 

However, Look Up is aware that some people have had eye operations without these tests.  This decision will be taken by the anaesthetist.

June 2009  

For Further Information on this Topic please read:

Eye Conditions that Require Surgery

Eye Surgery for People with Learning Disabilities

Planning the Operation

Day of the Operation

What to Expect a Hospital

Related Information:

Consent for Medical Treatment

Eye Lid Hygiene

Surgery Support Plan

Useful Links:

Useful pictures of someone having a blood test can be found on the Easyhealth website Please be aware that this contains pictures of blood and needles that may distress some people.