Geriatric Surgery Patient Checklist

The American College of Surgeons knows that preparing for surgery can be overwhelming. We created this Patient Checklist to encourage open communication with your surgical care team. It will help you keep track of your questions so you can be sure to get them answered prior to surgery. This checklist can also help make sure that your care team understands your goals and how they can support you to achieve the best possible outcome.

Learn more about the ACS Geriatric Surgery Verification Program and how it improves surgical care and outcomes for older adults.

Helpful Resources

Advance Directives

An advance directive is a legal form that lets you have a say about how you want to be cared for if you cannot speak for yourself. Please note that these forms are state specific.

Managing Medication Before Surgery

Your medications may need to be adjusted before surgery. It’s important that your care team know all about the medications you are taking before surgery. This resource will guide you.

Managing Pain Safely After Surgery

Managing pain helps speed recovery following an operation. Your care team wants to help you safely and effectively manage your pain. These resources will help guide you.