Preoperative Medical History & Physical Exam — Anesthesia Lecture
Preoperative Medical History & Physical Exam — Anesthesia Lecture Preoperative Medical History & Physical Examination Your Blueprint for Safe Anesthesia Part 1: The Preoperative Medical History – Anticipating Perioperative Risks 1.1 Chief Complaint & History of Present Illness (HPI) Start with the surgical indication: “Why are you having surgery?” Then use the OPQRST framework—but tailor it to anesthesia-specific concerns. Focus on symptom triggers , duration , severity , and associations that may signal hidden risk. Key anesthesia-relevant clues : Exertional dyspnea → possible heart failure Chest pain worsening with position → aortic dissection risk Recent fevers or jaundice (e.g., for cholecystectomy) → may affect NPO status or antibiotic planning Red flag : Any recent infection or clinical decompensation may warrant delaying electi...