pre-op testing at St. Vincents

Hi, I have my pre-op testing on july1 for my rny Does anyone know what all is involved? I am a little nervous. Thanks for any help. Dianna

Dianna, I can't answer for St. Vincent's. I had my surgery at Barix... but in my pre-testing... they did blood work, x-rays (back and front); ultrasound for checking the gallbladder... I saw a respiratory therapist... who checked my breathing and taught me how to use a spirometer...( we have to breath into this after surgery... helps with your lung capacity... deterant to pneumonia); also saw the nutritionist... she reviewed... nutrition info etc. All in all it wasn't bad... only thing that hurt was the blood draw... they had trouble with finding a good vein.... but for me that's normal!... hang in there... everything will be fine... I understand the jitters... but relax, sweetie... the end outcome is definitely worth it! Good luck... and I hope this helps calm your nerves! Be Blessed! V.

Hi I am 12 days out from surgery at St V's. My PATconsisted of having 10 vials of blood drawn, breathing test an EKG and a nurse will assesment. You then go up to the offices and you will get a lite breakfast and will talk to Al or Melissa, your nurse, a doctor and get a basic physical. The dietician will also spend some time going over foods. Don't be nervous you will be a group of others that will be having surgery soon to. You might want to take all you copies of previous test results with you incase they don't have a copy. If they find anything they will address it and you can have taken care of intime for surgery.

Hi Dianna, I think Debby explained the PAT's day at St Vincents very well. It is no big deal. It starts at 7:15 am and we were out by 1:00 pm. Just alot of tests in the morning followed by some classes with the nurses and nutritionist. You will learn alot on PAT day.....very informative. I had surgery at St Vincents on 4-22-04 (PAT's on 3-23-04) and I felt very comfortable with all the staff at St Vincents during my WLS journey. I wish you the best of luck. Prayers and Hugs Roger Open RNY 4-22-04 -61 lbs

I have my PAT 06/25/04. The letter they sent said I would be there from 7:15-3. I'm glad you asked this question.

Hi Ms. Na Na. I finally meet someone that is from Euclid also. Do you have a surgery date yet? I actually cancelled my surgery date in May...guess it just wanted the right time for me. I am back on track now. My dietician is helping me resume my journey to WLS.

Hey Thank you all for the information. I feel alot better, but off course one last question. Blood gases do they draw them at St. V's that seems to be my one bad weakness. I really get ill thinking about that. Thanks again, the pest Dianna

Dianna, When I went for my PAT's back on March 23 they didn't do the Blood gases test. I was worried about that also. Don't worry....everything will go great. I know it is easy for me to say that now....but you will be in good hands at St Vincents. Take care, Roger Open RNY 4-22-04 -61 lbs