If you had an operation in the past, then chances are that you were admitted to hospital one to two days beforehand. During this period you underwent all the steps necessary for preparation for anaesthesia and surgery, being examined by various doctors, undergoing tests, and meeting with your anaesthetist the evening before surgery.

Now, in many parts of the world, patients are no longer admitted to hospital the night before the operation. Instead, they are admitted on the day of the procedure for all elective surgery. This is known by such terms as ‘Admit Day of Procedure’ (ADOP) or ‘Day of Surgery Admission’. Patients arrive at the hospital for admission as little as one to two hours before the operation. This shortened period of hospital stay is more efficient, allowing more patients to be treated in a hospital than previously.

Because you probably will not be admitted to the hospital until a few hours before the operation, all the tests and preparation that would once have been done when you were in the hospital are done in the days or weeks before. You may be asked to attend an anaesthetic assessment clinic or preadmission clinic, where you will be evaluated.

However, if you require an emergency operation, your anaesthetist needs to assess you quickly. If time permits, you are assessed in the Accident & Emergency Unit or on the ward; otherwise the assessment takes place when you arrive in the Operating Room. In life-threatening emergencies, the opportunity for your anaesthetist to assess you is obviously very limited. Often your anaesthetist only has the opportunity to ask you a few specific questions, such as ‘Do you have any allergies?’, ‘Do you take any medication?’, ‘Have you had any problems with anaesthetics in the past?’. These questions might be asked as your anaesthetist starts intravenous lines and attaches monitors. Frequently, your anaesthetist must rely on your surgeon and other doctors or paramedical staff to provide an overall summary of your previous health and your current condition. In addition, anaesthetists rely on their own observational skills. In extreme emergencies, there may be no opportunity for your anaesthetist to discuss with you the options or risks of anaesthetic care.