Pre-Operative Lab Testing

Keeping you safe before surgery 

Your health and safety are our top priority. Before surgery, your care team may order lab tests and other screenings to ensure your body is ready for the procedure. These tests help lower the risk of complications and allow your provider to make the safest care plan for you. 

Why are lab tests done before surgery? 

Pre-operative tests help identify health concerns that may affect anesthesia or recovery. Your care team may check for: 

• Active illness or infection 
• Breathing or lung conditions 
• Heart concerns or rhythm problems 
• Blood sugar abnormalities 
• Pregnancy 
• Bleeding or clotting issues 

Finding and addressing these early helps keep your surgery as safe as possible. 

Common pre-operative tests 

Your provider will order tests based on the type of surgery you are having and your medical history. Common pre-op tests include: 

Lab tests 

• Complete blood count (CBC) – checks red and white blood cells and platelets 
• Basic or comprehensive metabolic panel – evaluates kidney, liver and electrolyte levels 
• Blood sugar (glucose) – especially important for people with diabetes 
• Coagulation tests – checks how well your blood clots 
• Urinalysis – screens for infection or kidney concerns 
• Pregnancy test – if applicable, for safety with anesthesia 
• Potassium and other electrolytes 
• Blood type and screen, if a transfusion may be needed 

Imaging and heart testing 

Based on your overall health, your doctor may also recommend: 

• Chest X-ray 
• CT scan or MRI (if concerns about specific organs) 
• Heart testing, such as: 
  • EKG (electrocardiogram) 
  • Echocardiogram 
  • Cardiac stress test 
  • Angiogram 

These tests help ensure your heart and lungs are ready for surgery and anesthesia. 

When will these tests be done? 

Timing depends on the type of test and your procedure. Your provider will let you know: 

• Which tests are required 
• When and where to complete them 
• Whether you need to fast beforehand 
• How long results may take 

Some results are available the same day. Others, like blood type matching or specialized imaging, may take a few days. 

It is important to complete testing on time so your surgery is not delayed. 

Support every step of the way 

Our lab and surgical teams work together to make your experience smooth and safe. If you have questions about testing instructions or results, your care team is always here to help. 

Have an upcoming surgery? 

Talk with your Banner Health provider to schedule your required pre-operative tests and prepare for a safe procedure.