Did anyone have to take Atenolol pre-op?

I have to take Atenolol before and aftersurgery.  It is a beta blocker and I was told to start it a week before surgery.  Not sure why.... 

Tina, here is some info I found for you and the goverment site I obtained it from. As to why you have to take it I would directely ask your doctor if you were not told why you have to take it. Wishing you all the best. Sher Why is this medication prescribed?  

Atenolol is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat high blood pressure. It also is used to prevent angina (chest pain) and treat heart attacks. Atenolol is in a class of medications called beta blockers. It works by slowing the heart rate and relaxing the blood vessels so the heart does not have to pump as hard.

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/medmaster/a68403 1.html#why

Thanks so much for looking this up for me.  I found out they prescribed it because I have a history of hypertension.

I was on Atenolol for about one year prior to surgery due to extreme high blood pressure.  Within 30 days following surgery, I was off the high blood pressure meds. 

I had to start taking it one week pre-op and will have to take it post-op.  I was told it was to protect my heart.  Monday will be here before I know it.