Before surgery, it is important to schedule a pre-anesthesia screening to ensure a safe procedure. MaineHealth providers offer comprehensive information about pre-anesthesia screenings, so that patients are well-prepared for surgery.
What is a pre-anesthesia screening?
During some surgical procedures, your doctor may give you medicine called anesthesia, which reduces or prevents pain. A pre-anesthesia screening helps identify any possible risks before you receive the anesthesia and determines which type of anesthesia is best for you.
Pre-anesthesia screening instructions
After scheduling and pre-registering for surgery, the pre-admission screening office will schedule your appointment to speak with an anesthesia nurse practitioner and a pre-operative nurse (in person or over the phone) about a week before your surgery. During this call or appointment, a nurse will ask you about:
- Names, doses, and times of your medications
- Allergies
- Health problems