All patients who are booked to undergo surgery or a procedure at the Royal Adelaide Hospital will first attend an outpatient appointment with the Pre-operative Assessment Clinic.

Please allow at least three hours for this appointment and related tests.

At this appointment you may see any of the following staff:

• an anaesthetic doctor
• a nurse
• a surgical doctor
• or other health professional.

Any necessary pre-operative tests will be done. This may include blood tests, X-rays and ECG (electrocardiograph).

You may wish to bring some food or snacks to your appointment. There is no need to fast for this appointment. For patients with diabetes, please make sure you eat a meal prior to attending this appointment.

What if I do not speak English?

If you do not speak or fully understand English, please inform the Booking Officer via the phone number provided on your appointment letter. Please phone the Booking Officer as soon as you receive this letter so an interpreter can be arranged.

Family members are not accepted as interpreters but they are welcome to attend.

What do I need to bring to my appointment?

• All medications/tablets (including herbal) in their original packaging, and place them in the ‘Medications’ plastic bag provided with your appointment letter.
•  Any relevant test results and/or x-rays.
• A recent health summary from your General Practitioner.
• Medicare, Veteran, Private Health or Pension card/s.
• Name and address of your General Practitioner (local doctor).
• Name and telephone numbers of a next of kin or carers.

You may also wish to bring a family member or support person with you to this appointment.