Why are lab values significant in preoperative assessment?

Lab values hold significant importance during the preoperative assessment as they help evaluate a patient's overall health and ability to undergo surgery, alongside identifying potential risks for complications. These values provide crucial information about various bodily functions and systems, such as liver and kidney function, blood counts, electrolyte balance, and coagulation status.

By analyzing lab values, healthcare providers can assess if a patient has any underlying conditions that may increase the risk of adverse events during or after surgery. For instance, abnormal blood levels could indicate issues with hemoglobin that may predispose a patient to excessive bleeding or impaired healing. This data helps the surgical team make informed decisions regarding the safety of proceeding with the surgery, as well as any necessary preoperative interventions that might be needed to optimize the patient's condition before the procedure.