What do they look for in blood test before surgery?

As a healthcare professional with expertise in pre-surgical evaluations, I can provide you with an overview of what medical professionals typically look for in blood tests before surgery. "Blood tests are a crucial part of the preoperative assessment to ensure a patient's safety and to prepare for any potential complications during surgery. The most common blood tests include: 1. Complete Blood Count (CBC): This test provides information about the different types of blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It can help identify anemia, infection, or other conditions that might affect the patient's ability to heal or their response to anesthesia. 2. Kidney Function Tests: These tests, such as blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels, assess how well the kidneys are filtering waste from the blood. Impaired kidney function can affect the choice of medications and the patient's fluid management during surgery. 3. Liver Function Tests: These evaluate the liver's ability to metabolize drugs and process proteins. Abnormalities can indicate liver disease, which may require adjustments in anesthesia or postoperative care. 4. Blood Sugar Tests: Checking blood glucose levels is important, especially for patients with diabetes, to ensure that their blood sugar is under control before surgery to prevent complications. In addition to these blood tests, other diagnostic tests might be ordered: - Chest X-ray: This imaging test can reveal any issues with the lungs or heart that might pose a risk during anesthesia or the surgical procedure. - Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): This test records the electrical activity of the heart and can identify heart rhythm problems or signs of heart damage that could affect the patient's surgical risk. These tests help the surgical team to understand the patient's overall health, assess the risk of surgery, and make informed decisions about the patient's care."

Common tests that your surgeon may ask you to have if you have not had them recently are: Blood tests such as a complete blood count (CBC) and kidney, liver, and blood sugar tests. Chest x-ray to check your lungs. ECG (electrocardiogram) to check your heart.