Inova Fair Oaks Hospital campus · Fairfax, Virginia
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Comprehensive preoperative care

Preoperative appointments

A comprehensive pre-op visit reviews your health before a planned procedure. We’ll go over medications, previous anesthesia and test results, and discuss any concerns that need attention before surgery.

ReviewHealth and procedure
CoordinateMedications and testing
PlanAnesthesia and recovery

Your appointment

What we cover at your pre-op visit

Bring your medication list and the instructions from your surgeon. We’ll review the following with you and let you know if more records or tests are needed.

01

Medical and surgical history

Your medical conditions, previous operations, allergies and any recent illness. Tell us how you manage everyday activity and whether you have had problems with anesthesia or recovery.

02

Medication plan

Bring a complete list, including blood thinners, diabetes and weight-loss medicines, and supplements. We’ll review whether any changes need to be discussed with your prescriber.

03

Anesthesia considerations

We’ll ask about sleep apnea, heart or lung conditions, and previous problems with anesthesia. We’ll also discuss pain relief, nausea and monitoring.

04

Testing and records

We review available test results and specialist notes, then decide whether further evaluation is needed before the procedure.

05

Where your procedure takes place

Your procedure and medical needs determine whether you should be treated in the office, at Inova Fair Oaks Hospital or at another facility.

06

Preparing for the day

We’ll go over arrival and fasting instructions, your ride home and help during recovery. You’ll also know what symptoms to watch for and when to follow up.

Bring to the appointment

What to bring

  • Current medication and allergy list, including supplements.
  • Names of specialists and the location of recent testing.
  • Prior anesthesia or airway concerns.
  • The planned procedure and surgeon’s instructions, if already available.
  • Questions about fasting, medications, transportation, and recovery.

Important

Do not change prescribed medication on your own.

Some changes require a conversation with the clinician who prescribed the medication. Keep taking it as directed unless the clinical office responsible for your procedure tells you otherwise.

New chest pain, severe shortness of breath, signs of stroke, uncontrolled bleeding, or another emergency requires immediate evaluation. Call 911.

Open planning checklist

Contact the office

Schedule a pre-op appointment

When you call, have the planned procedure, expected date and surgeon’s name available. Please don’t send medical details by email.

Call 703-594-1583
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