The elderly population (>65 years) rate is growing at an alarming rate, and almost a considerable number of older adults undergo surgical procedures. Owing to the effects of aging, this age group has a unique set of needs and considerations. Due to this, they are more likely to experience postoperative complications. Thus, the current article provides a preoperative checklist for the management of the elderly surgical patient.
Immediate Preoperative Management Checklist The patient’s treatment goals should be confirmed and documented including treatment preferences and advance directives (if any). If the patient is in an unconscious state or is not able to make decisions, then the patient’s health care proxy or surrogate decision-maker should be confirmed and documented. All the risks associated with the surgical procedure and an approach for potentially life-threatening problems…
