The anaesthetist should have assessed the patient prior to their arrival in theatre.

Most UK hospitals still use anaesthetic rooms for induction, though this is not the case in many countries in the world.

The following four points must be included in pre-operative checks:

• The anaesthetic machines and monitors in the anaesthetic room and in theatre
• Airway, breathing and circulation equipment
• Anaesthetic drugs
• Emergency equipment and drugs

Guidelines with respect to the checking of anaesthetic machines are published by the Association of Anaesthetists in Great Britain and Ireland (AAGBI). Links to the guidelines are available at the end of this session.