[The 'paper-based' preoperative evaluation: sometimes, a suitable alternative].
In the Netherlands, the majority of elective-surgery patients are evaluated by the anaesthesiologist at the preoperative assessment clinic. We believe that this visit can be omitted in selected patients as it has only minimal benefit, whereas its disadvantages can be substantial. Alternatively, the initial screening could be performed by the completion of a questionnaire via the telephone, via internet, by a nurse or by the surgeon. These data can then be evaluated by the anaesthesiologist; this is called the 'paper-based' preoperative evaluation. This method does require the conscientious cooperation between anaesthesiologists and surgeons; it should be clear which patients are eligible, what type of anaesthetic technique should be used, how the patient should be informed and how the informed consent is obtained. In our opinion, this paper-based evaluation combines safety and efficiency with patient-friendliness. It should be anchored in current guidelines to ensure quality.
UMC St Radboud, afd. Anesthesiologie, Pijn en Palliatieve zorg, Nijmegen, the Netherlands. m.bucx@anes.umcn.nl
Martin J L
MJ
Bucx
André P
AP
Wolff
Gert Jan
GJ
Scheffer
D000776:Anesthesiology / Q000592:standards; D003625:Data Collection; D017558:Elective Surgical Procedures / Q000592:standards*; D006801:Humans; D009426:Netherlands; D010808:Physical Examination / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D011300:Preoperative Care / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D057234:Preoperative Period; D012017:Referral and Consultation