The perioperative surgical experience includes the preoperative phase, intraoperative phase, and the postoperative phase The preoperative phase starts when the decision is made to proceed with a surgery or procedure and ends upon transfer to the operating room and is crucial to ensure patient safety

The preoperative phase requires a nurse to possess strong communication, teamwork, and patient assessments skills to promote optimal outcomes and avoid errors or adverse events Preadmission care provides the nurse and anesthesia provider the opportunity to ensure that the patient is safe and in a stable condition prior to a procedure or surgery

preoperative phase — begins when the decision is made to proceed with a surgery or procedure and ends when the patient arrives in the operating room. advance directive — document that allows a patient to convey, in writing, their wishes for care if they are unable to advocate for themselves due to a medical condition. malignant hyperthermia — serious genetic condition that causes a life-threatening elevation of body temperature and muscle spasms, among other severe symptoms. certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) — advanced practice RN who has received special training to administer anesthesia.