We Perform Pre-Op Physicals at Our Urgent Care Center in Tampa, FL

Doctor listening to a senior patient's heartbeat. Isolated on white.

Do you have an upcoming surgical procedure? Whether it is a minor outpatient treatment or a complex surgery involving overnight hospitalization, you might be feeling a bit apprehensive. By preparing in advance, you will be more likely to feel confident and comfortable throughout your surgical experience.

Do You Need a Pre-Op Physical?

In many cases, surgical preparation involves a preoperative physical examination. Your surgical team will decide whether you need to have a pre-op physical; if so, they will provide specific instructions. In general, a pre-op physical should be completed within 30 days of your scheduled procedure. This should allow adequate time for your surgical team to integrate the results into your surgical plan and, if necessary, for you to receive treatment for certain health issues—such as an infection—that could increase your risk of surgical complications.

If your surgical team has instructed you to have a pre-operative evaluation, the experienced medical team at South Tampa Immediate Care can help you check that item off your to-do list. We perform pre-op physicals at our urgent care center in Tampa, FL.

What Do Pre-Op Physicals Include?

A pre-op physical is a bit different from a wellness exam or annual checkup; the goal is to confirm that you are healthy enough to safely undergo anesthesia and surgery. It will also provide valuable information to help you achieve the best possible outcome.

During your pre-op physical at South Tampa Immediate Care, your provider will:

  • Discuss your personal and family medical history, including any surgeries, chronic conditions, allergies, and previous reactions to anesthesia
  • Record your height and body weight
  • Check your vital signs, including your blood pressure, heart rate, and body temperature
  • Review your current medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter remedies, vitamins, and supplements, and explain how to take them before your surgery
  • Perform a physical examination, cardiac evaluation, and lung assessment
  • If necessary, order additional preoperative testing, such as blood work, a urinalysis, X-rays, or an electrocardiogram (EKG), which we can complete on-site

During your pre-op physical, your provider at South Tampa Immediate Care will also offer helpful tips on how to prepare for your surgery by reducing or quitting smoking, consuming a nutritious diet, getting plenty of physical activity, ensuring you are well rested, and arranging the help you may need before and after your procedure.

Once your pre-op physical is complete, we will provide you with a written preoperative risk stratification report (low, medium, or high) that you can give to your surgeon. Based on this information, your surgeon can determine whether you should proceed with your scheduled surgery or if you will need to wait until an identified medical issue improves or resolves. In sum, we can provide everything you need to ensure that you are fully prepared for a safe and successful surgery.

Schedule Your Exam Today

You can feel confident entrusting your pre-op physical to South Tampa Immediate Care. We will help ensure that you are “optimized for surgery.”

To schedule a pre-op physical at our urgent care center located at 602 S. Howard Ave. in Tampa, FL, send an email to physicals@southtampaimmediatecare.com. The price of the exam can vary depending on the surgeon’s orders. We will inform you of the final cost in advance of your appointment.