Pre-operative evaluation is a crucial step in ensuring patient safety prior to surgical procedures. This assessment involves a comprehensive review of a patient’s medical history, current health status, and potential risk factors. For example, an individual with pre-existing cardiac conditions would require a thorough cardiovascular examination before undergoing a non-cardiac surgery.
The importance of this process lies in minimizing surgical complications and optimizing patient outcomes. By identifying and addressing potential health concerns beforehand, healthcare providers can tailor the surgical plan and implement preventative measures. Historically, this practice has evolved from basic physical examinations to sophisticated diagnostic testing and risk stratification models, significantly improving surgical safety profiles.