We may ask you to have a preadmission assessment in the weeks or days before your surgery. Not everyone will need this.
Depending on your medical history and the type of surgery you need we may do the appointment over the phone or ask you to come to the hospital to see us in person.
The Canberra Hospital Preadmission Clinic is in Building 12, Level 2, Canberra Hospital. We have information about how to get to Canberra Hospital. We ask that you allow up to 4 hours for your appointment.
The North Canberra Hospital Preadmission Clinic is in the Lewisham Building, level 1 (next to the specialist outpatients clinic), North Canberra Hospital. We have information about how to get to North Canberra Hospital.
You will need to bring:
- a list of your medications and the dosage amounts
- any previous x-rays or scans relevant to your surgery
- GP summary or letters from your specialists.
During your appointment you will see a nurse and an anaesthetist. You may also see other specialist team members involved in your care.
While you are here, we will:
- take your blood pressure
- check your weight
- do some blood tests if needed
- ask about previous surgeries you have had
- ask about your medical history, such as allergies, any illnesses, or conditions you have
- talk to you about when to stop taking any medicines before your surgery
- give you information about what to expect after your surgery, and
- talk to you about who will be at home to look after you once you are discharged.
You may have some questions for us, like:
- How long can I expect to be off work?
- Will I have bandages or dressings to change when I’m home?
- How long until I can drive?
- Where can I get help or find out more information?