Pre-operative assessment unit (POAC)
Our Pre-operative assessment team aim to ensure that all patients are adequately prepared for elective surgery. We have a nurse in charge on both sites and staff nurses/ODPs performing assessments, healthcare assistants taking observations and administrators/reception staff. We work under the guidance of consultant anaesthetists and work closely with surgeons and GPs.
Patients will be either be sent an electronic health questionnaire once they are referred and accepted for surgery or will be contacted by our admin or booking teams and given an appointment in advance of surgery.
Patient Information
Musgrove Park Hospital
Patients having surgery at Musgrove Park Hospital will be contacted via text message or email with a link to a pre-assessment questionnaire to establish if you are fit for surgery.
Please see the bottom of this page for more information.
Yeovil Hospital
You will be given an appointment (either by letter or telephone call) for a pre-operative assessment to ensure you are fit for surgery. A nurse or ODP will undertake a full medical history either during a face-to-face appointment or over the telephone. If you have a telephone assessment you may be asked to attend the department either before or after the appointment and a Health Care assistant will measure your height, weight and blood pressure.
Swabs may be taken screening for MRSA to prevent cross infection and if undergoing surgery that requires an implantable device or material, screening for MSSA will be required. Other investigations may be ordered if needed such as an ECG (electronic recording of your heart), blood tests, Echocardiogram (scan) of heart and lung function tests. If you have a complex medical background, a consultant anaesthetic appointment may be necessary depending on the type of surgery you are having.
Please contact the appropriate pre-operative assessment clinic on the number above if:
- you are uncertain about what medicines to take before surgery
- you have MRSA additional information
- you become unwell after your pre-assessment or there are changes in your health /medication.
Online pre-operative assessment
Patients having surgery at Musgrove Park Hospital will be contacted via text message or email with a link to a pre-assessment questionnaire.
When you click on the link in the text message a pre-operative questionnaire form will open up on your screen.
Please read the information contained on the page and click the ‘Go to questionnaire’ button at the bottom of the page to proceed.
This questionnaire is important and is the first step in making sure you are fit and ready for surgery. To help us prepare you for your procedure, please complete this as soon as possible.
Please make sure you provide accurate information. This is for your safety and to give you the best possible outcome. Incorrect or insufficient information may lead to delays and potential cancellation of your operation.
If you have any concerns or questions about the questionnaire, or you are unable to complete it, please contact the Pre-Operative team on 01823 344150.