If your surgeon asks for a “medical clearance” before an operation, the goal is to understand whether any current health issues need attention before the procedure. At Tempe Primary Care, our physical exam services include preoperative medical clearances for patients in Tempe and Chandler, Arizona. Elma Williamson, FNP-BC is one of our board-certified family nurse practitioners and has more than 15 years of medical experience, including emergency medicine, hospice care, and military healthcare.
What Happens During a Preoperative Evaluation?
“Clearance” is a common term, but the appointment is better thought of as a preoperative medical evaluation. It helps your surgical team understand your current conditions, medications, allergies, prior surgeries, and any history of problems with anesthesia. The exact requirements depend on the procedure and the instructions from your surgeon.
A typical visit often includes a medical history, physical assessment, and vital signs such as blood pressure and heart rate. If your surgeon requests testing, or if your health indicates that testing is appropriate, medical laboratory testing may also be part of the process. Not everyone needs the same bloodwork or studies before surgery.
Why Your Current Conditions and Medications Matter
A preoperative evaluation is not simply about receiving a “pass” for surgery. It is a chance to identify information that could change how your procedure, anesthesia, or recovery is planned. Diabetes, heart or lung conditions, high blood pressure, and other ongoing medical issues may require additional attention.
If you receive chronic conditio management, make sure we know about recent changes in symptoms, treatment, or test results. Give us a complete list of prescription medicines, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements. Do not stop blood thinners, diabetes medicines, supplements, or other treatments on your own before surgery. Medication instructions should come from the clinicians involved in your care.
How Can You Prepare for the Appointment?
Have your surgeon’s paperwork or preoperative instructions available, along with the date and type of surgery. It also helps to know where the procedure will take place and whether specific labs, an EKG, imaging, or other studies have been requested.
Scheduling early leaves time to complete any follow-up without adding unnecessary stress close to surgery. Information from recent preventative care visits or prior testing may also be useful.
Prepare for Surgery With a Preoperative Medical Evaluation
If your surgeon has given you clearance forms or testing requirements, have them available when you make the appointment. Tempe Primary Care offers preoperative evaluations in Tempe and Chandler, AZ. Contact us or call 602-283-0080 so our team can prepare for what your surgical office has requested.
