Common Pre-Surgical Tests Explained: What to Expect Before Your Procedure

No matter how minor or major your surgery might be, one thing is certain—your body has to be ready for it. Surgery places a unique kind of stress on your system, and that means your care team needs a clear picture of your current health before any procedure takes place. That’s where pre-surgery testing comes in.

If you’ve ever wondered why your doctor orders a full panel of tests before surgery—or if you’re scheduled for surgery soon and feeling unsure about what to expect—you’re not alone. From bloodwork to heart monitoring to infection screenings, pre-operative testing might seem overwhelming, but each test has a clear purpose. These aren’t just precautionary—they’re essential for safe, successful outcomes.

Why Pre-Surgical Testing Isn’t Just Routine

Pre-surgery testing isn’t about protocol—it’s about precision. Every person reacts differently to surgery and anesthesia. Pre-operative tests help your surgical team tailor your care to your body’s specific needs and minimize the chance of complications.

Even if you’re healthy, test results can catch issues you didn’t know you had. Elevated glucose levels, clotting concerns, or heart rhythm irregularities can all affect how your surgery is performed—or whether it should be delayed until further treatment. With the right testing done ahead of time, these surprises become manageable rather than dangerous. This isn’t just your medical history—it’s your real-time health status. And when it comes to something as important as surgery, current information can be lifesaving.

Blood Work: The Body’s Internal Report Card

Blood tests are one of the first things your provider will order before surgery. They give insight into how your body is functioning from the inside out. These results are critical for everything from infection prevention to anesthesia planning.

Typical blood tests may include:

• CBC (Complete Blood Count): Evaluates red and white blood cells, hemoglobin, and platelets to identify anemia, infection, or clotting problems
• CMP or BMP (Comprehensive/Basic Metabolic Panel): Checks kidney and liver function, electrolyte levels, and blood sugar
• PT/PTT and INR: Measures how long it takes your blood to clot, which is vital to avoid excessive bleeding during surgery
• HCG (Pregnancy test): Required for women of childbearing age
• Hemoglobin A1c: Assesses blood sugar control over the last 2–3 months, especially for diabetic patients 

These tests are quick and often require just one blood draw. The information they provide helps guide the entire surgical plan, from medication use to hydration needs.

Imaging: A Closer Look Before the First Cut

Pre-surgical imaging helps detect physical conditions that aren’t always visible through examination or blood tests. Whether your surgery involves joints, organs, or soft tissue, seeing what’s going on inside helps prevent surprises on the table.

You may be asked to undergo:

• Chest X-rays, to evaluate lung health, especially in smokers or those with respiratory symptoms
• CT scans or MRIs, for detailed views of problem areas (used in orthopedic, abdominal, or neurological procedures)
• Ultrasounds, to examine blood flow or internal structures without radiation

Your provider will only recommend imaging that’s relevant to your surgery and risk factors. Often, these tests are done within a few days of your procedure to give your care team the most up-to-date view possible.

EKG: Understanding How Your Heart Is Handling the Pressure

An electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) is a quick, painless test that records your heart’s electrical signals. It’s one of the most common pre-surgical tests, especially for patients over 50 or those with a history of cardiac issues.Even if you feel fine, an EKG can detect arrhythmias, signs of previous heart attacks, or other conditions that might increase your risk under anesthesia. If anything abnormal is found, your provider may consult with a cardiologist or adjust the anesthesia plan accordingly.

Don’t be alarmed if you’re asked to do this—it’s just a smart precaution that protects your heart while it’s working a little harder during surgery.

Infection Screening: Preventing Complications Before They Start

One of the most important aspects of surgical safety is infection control. Your provider will want to make sure there are no active infections in your body before you’re in the operating room. Even something as minor as an undiagnosed urinary tract infection or bacteria on your skin could raise your risk post-op.

Pre-op infection testing often includes:

• MRSA screening: A nasal swab to check for antibiotic-resistant staph bacteria
• Urinalysis: Identifies urinary infections or kidney issues
• COVID-19 testing: Still required for certain procedures or high-risk patients

These tests can usually be done during your clearance appointment and deliver quick results. If something shows up, treatment can be started right away to avoid surgical delays.

Pregnancy Testing: A Necessary Safety Step

Even if a pregnancy seems unlikely, surgery and anesthesia can pose serious risks to a developing fetus. That’s why an HCG blood or urine test is required for all women of childbearing age prior to most procedures. The goal isn’t to pry—it’s to protect. If a patient is unknowingly pregnant, the entire surgical plan may need to be altered or postponed to ensure the safety of both the patient and the baby.It’s a simple, sensitive step that carries significant impact.

What Happens If a Test Raises a Concern?

Not all test results come back perfect—and that’s okay. That’s the entire point of pre-surgery testing: to identify issues before surgery. If something comes up that needs attention, your provider will discuss your options and either recommend follow-up care or a slight delay in your procedure.

It’s far better to adjust your timeline than to face a complication in the operating room or recovery area. In most cases, a quick medication change, an antibiotic, or a consult with a specialist can resolve the issue in time for your procedure to move forward safely.

You’re not being judged—you’re being protected.

How to Prepare for Your Pre-Surgical Testing Appointment

A little preparation can go a long way in making your visit smooth and stress-free. If you’ve been scheduled for pre-op testing, here’s how to set yourself up for success:

• Bring a full list of medications (including dosages and over-the-counter supplements)
• Know your medical and surgical history
• Wear comfortable clothes, especially if you’ll be having an EKG or X-ray
• Follow fasting instructions if any labs require it
• Bring a form of ID and insurance information
• Ask questions! Our team is here to explain what each test is and why it’s needed

Being an active part of your care makes you feel more in control, and we’ll make sure you have the information you need every step of the way.

Need Pre-Surgery Testing in Downtown Tampa? We’ve Got You Covered

If you live or work in Downtown Tampa and need to complete your pre-operative tests, TGH Urgent Care powered by Fast Track makes it easy to get everything done in one place. You can find our Downtown at The Heights Urgent Care location at 303 W Palm Ave, Tampa, FL

We’re located near Tampa Armature Works and just a few blocks from The Pearl, Sprouts Farmers Market, and the Riverwalk, making your visit easy to fit into a lunch break or a quick afternoon stop. Whether your surgeon needs bloodwork, an EKG, or a full pre-op panel, our experienced team will handle it promptly, professionally, and with your schedule in mind.

Our facility is equipped for a wide range of testing, and we communicate directly with your surgical team to ensure your clearance is received on time. No back-and-forth, no stress—just one less thing to worry about before your big day.

Let’s Get You Surgery-Ready, the Right Way

Pre-Surgery Testing in Downtown Tampa

The right testing makes all the difference. Whether it’s catching a hidden condition, customizing anesthesia, or making sure you’re cleared for surgery without delays, these tests are a critical part of your medical journey. At TGH Urgent Care powered by Fast Track, we’re proud to play a role in helping patients move forward with confidence and peace of mind.

If you’re scheduled for a procedure and need pre-surgery testing, give us a call today. We have 20 convenient locations across the Greater Tampa Area, all open 7 days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Use our Save My Spot e-Check-in system to skip the waiting room and fill out forms online ahead of time. We’re here to keep you healthy, informed, and one step closer to recovery—starting before you even get to the OR.