Anaesthetists Handbook - MEDICAL EDUCATION at University ...

Indications for investigationsFull blood count indicationsPreoperative assessment and investigationsFull blood count is only indicated in patients having one or more ofthe following:• Recent major surgery• Scheduled major surgery with anticipated major blood loss.• Chronic disease e.g. rheumatoid, renal or liver disease.• High alcohol intake.• History of heavy periods.• Cardiovascular conditions.• Respiratory conditions (exceptions: asthma, TB, hay fever).• History of anaemia (including sickle cell disease).• Bleeding conditions or strokes.• Chronic vomiting or diarrhoea.• Diet low in red meat, or dark green vegetables.• Medication: NSAIDs, anticoagulants, rheumatoid drugs,steroids.Urea & electrolytes indications• Symptomatic patients e.g. diabetes, vomiting, diarrhoea, renaldisease, hepatic disease.• Patients taking relevant drugs e.g. diuretics, digoxin, andother cardiac drugs.• Patients over 50 years having major surgery unlessotherwise agreed with the relevant anaesthetist.Electrocardiography (ECG) indicationsSee pathway below.Glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA 1C) indications• Diabetes mellitus.Anaesthetists Handbook January 2010 167