At MedicsPro, our experienced team of professional recruiters ensures that we match qualified theatre professionals with locum and permanent roles worldwide.

We Offer:

• A dedicated compliance officer
• A market-leading referral scheme
• Access to exclusive ultrasound vacancies
• Expert consultative service
• Opportunities across the UK, Scotland, Ireland and Wales.
• Preferred supply status with numerous NHS and private healthcare providers
• Weekly payroll

What is Pre-assessment?

A pre-assessment, often referred to as a pre-operative assessment (POA), is a consultation with a nurse or anaesthetist prior to surgery, designed to ensure the patient is fit and prepared for the procedure.

Purpose

The primary goal of the pre-assessment is to build rapport with the patient, confirm their readiness for surgery, and develop a tailored plan for the operation.

What to Expect

During the pre-assessment, the following will occur:

• A discussion regarding the patient's health status, medical history, living situation, current medications, and any allergies.
• Physiological measurements, including blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation levels.
• Diagnostic tests, such as an ECG (electrocardiogram) or blood tests.
• A nasal swab may be performed, depending on the type of surgery.

Pre-assessment

A thorough anaesthetic pre-assessment should be performed on all patients prior to surgery. The aims of the pre-assessment are to:

• Establish a good rapport with the patient.
• Ensure the patient is fit and optimally prepared for surgery.
• Formulate an anaesthetic plan.

You may be expected to assess patients on your list from the start of your training. Initially, you will be directly supervised by your consultant; however, you will progress to performing uncomplicated preoperative visits independently. The following will guide you through the process and direct you to appropriate educational resources.

Preparation is Key

Try to locate the theatre list early and contact your supervising consultant before any preoperative visits. This allows you to:

• Discuss the patients in detail.
• Perform the preoperative visit with more confidence.
• Review the cases beforehand to take advantage of any learning opportunities.

The Preoperative Visit

Allow plenty of time to see your patients, as it can take longer than anticipated. During this visit, you should:

• Take a history, assess the airway, and examine the cardiorespiratory system as indicated.
• Review any investigations.
• Review the notes and any old anaesthetic charts that may contain information about previous anaesthetics.
• Make a problem list if you identify any issues.
• Formulate an anaesthetic plan.

As a trainee, you should not cancel a patient by yourself. You must discuss any issues with your supervising consultant. Consider:

• The severity of the problem.
• Whether the patient can be improved or optimised prior to surgery.
• Whether it is in the patient’s best interest to proceed or delay the procedure.

The final decision is made by the consultant anaesthetist after discussion with the surgical team.

The Anaesthetic Plan

An anaesthetic plan is formulated for each patient undergoing a specific procedure. It depends on various patient, anaesthetic, and surgical factors, encompassing all aspects of the perioperative period.

 This plan includes:

• Type of anaesthetic.
• Required monitoring.
• Plans for intraoperative and postoperative analgesia.
• Prevention of nausea and vomiting.
• Fluid management, including any blood products that may be needed.
• Methods of temperature control during the procedure.
• Postoperative care, such as the need for a high dependency unit or intensive care.

You should try to formulate an anaesthetic plan for each patient you see and discuss it with your supervising consultant. With experience, you will be given increasing responsibility and autonomy to develop and implement your anaesthetic plan.

Once the plan is finalised, you must:

• Discuss the options and associated risks with the patient in understandable language.
• Obtain informed consent.
• Communicate your plans to the anaesthetic assistant before the start of the list, so they can prepare the required equipment.
• Ensure your anaesthetic chart is complete, detailing your assessment, management plans, and risks discussed.
• Prepare the anaesthetic room and theatre.

Timing

The pre-assessment can be conducted in person, via video call, or over the phone.

Duration of Validity

Typically, the pre-assessment remains valid for about six months, provided the patient notifies the hospital of any changes in their health or medications.

This is the perfect time to work, with a strong demand for skilled professionals. By choosing MedicsPro, you'll have access to a wide range of opportunities and competitive pay rates.

Key Benefits:

• Access to a Wide Range of Opportunities: MedicsPro offers a broad selection of locum and permanent positions across various medical specialties.
• Competitive Pay Rates: The agency provides highly competitive pay rates to ensure you’re well-compensated for your skills and experience.
• Flexible Work Options: With locum and permanent roles available, you can choose work that suits your schedule and lifestyle, offering greater work-life balance.
• Dedicated Support: MedicsPro offers personalised support from a team of experienced recruitment consultants who are there to guide you through the job search process.
• Exclusive Roles: Many of the positions available through MedicsPro are exclusive, giving you access to roles that may not be advertised elsewhere.
• Ongoing Training and Development: The agency provides opportunities for continuing professional development, helping you stay current with industry standards and enhance your career prospects.
• Fast and Efficient Recruitment Process: MedicsPro ensures a smooth and streamlined recruitment process, minimising the time it takes for you to secure your next role.
• Nationwide and International Opportunities: Whether you're looking for work in the NHS, private sector, or overseas, MedicsPro offers positions across the UK and beyond.