Psychological evaluations can help identify underlying mental health conditions or psychological factors that may affect the surgical outcome or recovery process.
Dr. Christine Sparacino
Psychoanalytic Psychologist
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Pre-surgical psychological evaluations help create a comprehensive picture of the patient's health, considering both physical and mental aspects. By addressing any psychological concerns before surgery, healthcare teams can optimize the surgical experience and enhance the overall patient outcome.
Some psychological factors, such as high levels of stress or emotional distress, can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery. Identifying and addressing these risk factors before surgery can help healthcare professionals take appropriate precautions and provide necessary support.
By assessing a patient's psychological health, healthcare providers can ensure that the individual is mentally fit for surgery and that their safety and well-being are prioritized throughout the surgical process.
Psychological pre-surgical screenings can vary depending on the specific needs of the patient, the type of surgery being performed, and the healthcare facility's protocols. These interviews involve a mental health professional conducting a systematic and standardized assessment of the patient's psychological health. The interviewer asks a series of questions to gather information about the patient's mental health history, current emotional state, coping abilities, and any potential risk factors.
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Pre-surgical evaluations consist of at least 3 separate appointments. You will meet with Dr. Sparacino for a clinical interview, and she will gather a history from you to gain an understanding of your life. This first appointment is 60 minutes, Typically your second appointment will involve psychological testing that you will complete. The testing will assess a variety of factors of your life. This testing generally takes about 2 hours to complete. A final appointment is scheduled to review your results and discuss recommendations; this appointment is 30 minutes.
Once you complete the final appointment, a report will be written and sent to your surgical team, declaring your readiness for surgery and recommendations for your care.
Pre-surgical screenings are important medical evaluations conducted before a surgical procedure. These screenings help ensure the safety and well-being of the patient before, during, and after surgery. They provide crucial information to medical professionals, enabling them to make informed decisions and tailor the surgical plan to the individual patient's needs.
They are a vital component of the surgical process, contributing to successful outcomes and reducing the likelihood of complications. Patients are encouraged to be honest and thorough during these screenings to provide accurate information that will guide the medical team in delivering the best care possible.
The primary goal of pre-surgical screenings is to prioritize patient safety. By thoroughly assessing the patient's health and risks, medical professionals can take proactive measures to ensure a safe surgical experience. Screening can identify the presence of infections, such as urinary tract infections or respiratory infections, which might increase the risk of complications during surgery.
Pre-surgical screenings help medical teams anticipate potential complications and prepare for any emergencies that might arise during or after surgery.
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