Preadmission Unit changes name to Preoperative Evaluation Center

For more than 20 years, the Preadmission Unit (PAU) at Ruby Memorial Hospital has worked to assess, evaluate, educate, and successfully prepare patients for surgery.

To better define the department’s role, members of perioperative leadership have changed the name to the Preoperative Evaluation Center (PEC), effective Monday, Aug. 1.

The Preoperative Evaluation Center will continue to provide the same quality care for patients. Nurses and nurse practitioners ensure that each patient is medically prepared for his or her procedure. After completing a thorough health history, the patient is assessed and ordered any necessary laboratory testing or consultations. Education regarding home medications, anesthesia, pain control, and common procedures related to surgery are reviewed with the patient.

The department is a resource for promoting a positive, safe, patient-focused, surgical experience for patients and their families.