Presurgery Orientation

Your treatment actually begins before your surgery. When your surgeon's office schedules your surgery, you'll likely receive a packet of instructions. It includes how to arrange a presurgery orientation appointment and a medical/anesthesia history form to fill out. Depending on your specific surgery and condition, the PSO visit about 15 to 60 minutes. Some patients have their appointment by phone, while others come to an in-person visit.

During the visit, the PSO nurse gathers information — including medical history, pain assessment and dietary survey — and gives you information like handouts and videos about your upcoming surgery or procedure.

Your PSO appointment also:

• Expedites your admission process by having all appropriate paperwork and testing completed.
• Helps arrange necessary referrals to other departments.
• Reduces anxiety and fear by answering questions and explaining what to expect.