Technology is being harnessed to help patients with their pre-operative assessment.

People due to have an operation will now be able to scan a quick response (QR) code into their mobile phones to be taken straight to the online information they need to read before they have their procedure.

Consultant anaesthetist Dr François Taljard, NHS Lanarkshire clinical lead for perioperative services, said: “Patients due to be admitted to hospital for a surgical procedure will usually attend a Pre-operative Assessment Clinic.

“Healthcare staff will assess them to make sure they are fit and well enough to have their operation.

“At the appointment they will be given detailed written information and have the chance to ask any questions about the operation.

“Patients should also read information on the following topics – pre-operative fasting instructions and advice on eating and drinking, their anaesthetic, MRSA screening, and reducing

the risk of blood clots.

“To make this easier we can now give them a letter that includes a QR code that they can scan with their mobile phones. That will take them straight to the information on the NHS Lanarkshire website.

“Of course, patients can still receive leaflets with the information if they prefer.”