Evaluation of preoperative admission and anesthesia consultation in surgery

: Preoperative consultation with patients on their imminent hospitalisation for surgery and on aspects of necessary anaesthesia was introduced at the Lubben District Hospital for planned operations in 1977. Five categories of diseases which required general surgery have now been evaluated, in this context. That consultation, based on outpatient practice, has proved helpful in reducing the time of hospitalisation, disability, and pre-admission waiting periods. Surgical and bed capacities were more effectively utilised, and duplicated examinations were avoided. Patients were given a say in surgical timing.