Operation Preparation, a new podcast hosted by St James’s Hospital staff, provides surgical patients with key information ahead of their upcoming procedure with the objective of empowering patients and seeing them have better outcomes. The six-part series seeks to answer the common questions people have about anaesthesia in the lead up to surgery, by providing a compilation of relevant patient experiences and insights from which new patients can benefit from, allowing them to clarify their own concerns.
This podcast is for general guidance and information only. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding a medical condition.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Operation Preparation, a new podcast hosted by St James’s Hospital staff, provides surgical patients with key information ahead of their upcoming procedure with the objective of empowering patients and seeing them have better outcomes. The six-part series seeks to answer the common questions people have about anaesthesia in the lead up to surgery, by providing a compilation of relevant patient experiences and insights from which new patients can benefit from, allowing them to clarify their own concerns.
This podcast is for general guidance and information only. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding a medical condition.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to the first episode of Season 3! In this episode, the team explore how quitting smoking before surgery can have benefits to your health, even in as little as 24 hours. This episode’s guest, Clinical Nurse Specialist Carmel Doherty, explains how smoking affects anaesthesia, wound healing, infection risk, and shares her top tips for quitting smoking before your operation.
For more information:
Check out the Operation Preparation ‘Steps For A Stronger Start’ website here, where transcripts of this episode can be found. You can visit the PAAC webpage here and the St James's Hospital website here.
Visit the Quit Smoking Website.
St James Hospital Stop Smoking Information
National Stop Smoking Quitline: 1800 201 203
Email the team with questions/topics you would like covered at operationpreparation@stjames.ie.
Abbreviations:
PAAC: Pre Anaesthetic Assessment Clinic
GP: General Practitioner
NRT: Nicotine Replacement Therapy
This podcast is for general guidance and information only. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding a medical condition. Music created and recorded by Niall Malone & Mikey Murray. Recording & Sound Production by Kevin at Philtrum Pictures.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, the PAAC team explore regional anaesthesia — what it is, how it works, and when it’s used. Guest anaesthesiologist, Dr Ben Atterton, explains how this type of anaesthetic can numb specific areas of the body while keeping you awake and comfortable during surgery and recovery. He discusses the different types of regional blocks, what to expect before and after the procedure, and how this approach can help with pain control and recovery. You will also hear from patient ‘Grace’ who shares her experience of having a regional anaesthetic in The South Dublin Surgical Hub.
For more information:
Check out the Operation Preparation ‘Steps For A Stronger Start’ website here, where transcripts of this episode can be found. You can visit the PAAC webpage here and the St James's Hospital website here.
View the video of a regional anaesthetic procedure here.
Email the team with questions/topics you would like us to cover here at operationpreparation@stjames.ie.
Abbreviations:
PAAC: Pre Anaesthetic Assessment Clinic
GP: General Practitioner
This podcast is for general guidance and information only. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding a medical condition. Music created and recorded by Niall Malone & Mikey Murray. Recording & Sound Production by Kevin at Philtrum Pictures.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This episode takes you behind the doors of the Intensive Care Unit - a place that can seem daunting, but is designed for your safety and recovery. Guest speakers consultant anaesthesiologist Carrie Murphy and Advanced Nurse Practitioner Louise Mullins explain what the ICU is, who might need to be there, and what kind of care and monitoring happens around the clock. They’ll also share tips for patients and families on how to prepare, communicate with staff, and look after themselves during this time.
For more information:
Check out the Operation Preparation ‘Steps For A Stronger Start’ website here, where transcripts of this episode can be found. You can visit the PAAC webpage here and the St James's Hospital website here.
Email the team with questions/topics you would like us to cover here at operationpreparation@stjames.ie.
Abbreviations:
PAAC: Pre Anaesthetic Assessment Clinic
GP: General Practitioner
ICU: Intensive Care Unit
This podcast is for general guidance and information only. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding a medical condition. Music created and recorded by Niall Malone & Mikey Murray. Recording & Sound Production by Kevin at Philtrum Pictures.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The PAAC team explore how physiotherapists support patients before and after surgery to help achieve the best possible recovery. Guest physiotherapist, Niamh Mc Carthy, explains the importance of prehabilitation - exercises and education that prepare your body for surgery - and how rehabilitation after surgery helps to improve recovery, regain movement, strength, and confidence.
For more information:
Check out the Operation Preparation ‘Steps For A Stronger Start’ website here, where transcripts of this episode can be found. You can visit the PAAC webpage here and the St James's Hospital website here.
Abbreviations:
PAAC: Pre Anaesthetic Assessment Clinic
GP: General Practitioner
ACBT: Active Cycle of Breathing Technique
This podcast is for general guidance and information only. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding a medical condition. Music created and recorded by Niall Malone & Mikey Murray. Recording & Sound Production by Kevin at Philtrum Pictures.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This episode explains how anaesthesia is safely used during pregnancy, labour, childbirth and other surgeries during pregnancy. Guest speakers consultant anaesthesiologist Dr Noelle Healy and Assistant Director of Nursing and Midwifery, Ms Raji Dominic, from the Coombe Hospital Dublin, describe the different types of anaesthesia — including epidurals, spinal blocks, and general anaesthesia - and how each is chosen to suit the mother’s and baby’s needs. The discussion covers what to expect before, during, and after anaesthesia, how comfort and safety are maintained, and the role of the anaesthetic team in supporting both mother and baby throughout the process.
For more information:
Check out the Operation Preparation ‘Steps For A Stronger Start’ website here, where transcripts of this episode can be found. You can visit the PAAC webpage here and the St James's Hospital website here.
See here if you're preparing for Caesarean birth.
Visit the Coombe Pre-Assessment Clinic,
Email the team with questions/topics you would like us to cover here at operationpreparation@stjames.ie
Abbreviations:
PAAC: Pre Anaesthetic Assessment Clinic
C Section: Caesarean Section
ID: identification
PCA: patient controlled analgesia
This podcast is for general guidance and information only. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding a medical condition. Music created and recorded by Niall Malone & Mikey Murray. Recording & Sound Production by Kevin at Philtrum Pictures.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Guest speakers Consultant Surgeon in Upper Gastro-Intestinal Surgery, Ms Claire Donohoe and Clinical Nurse Specialist Jenny Moore talk about two major operations - oesophagectomy and gastrectomy - surgeries to remove part or all of the oesophagus (food pipe) or stomach. These are complex but carefully planned procedures, carried out by a specialist surgical team to treat conditions like cancer of the oesophagus or stomach. They guide you through what happens before, during, and after surgery, why these operations are done and how they help, what the surgery involves, what to expect on the day and how your team keeps you safe and comfortable in theatre and after your surgery.
For more information:
Check out the Operation Preparation ‘Steps For A Stronger Start’ website here, where transcripts of this episode can be found. You can visit the PAAC webpage here and the St James's Hospital website here.
Email the team with questions/topics you would like us to cover here at operationpreparation@stjames.ie
Abbreviations:
PAAC: Pre Anaesthetic Assessment Clinic
CT scan: computed tomography scan
ECG: Electrocardiography
ECHO: echocardiogram
GI: gastro-intestinal
ICU: intensive care unit
PET CT: Positron Emission Tomography-Computed Tomography
This podcast is for general guidance and information only. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding a medical condition. Music created and recorded by Niall Malone & Mikey Murray. Recording & Sound Production by Kevin at Philtrum Pictures.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In the final episode of season 2, the team explains how a general anaesthetic works and answers some questions sent in by listeners to alleviate common fears.
For more information: Check out the Operation Preparation ‘Steps For A Stronger Start’ website: www.stjames.ie/operationpreparation
Email us with questions/topics you would like us to cover here at perioperativepodcast@Stjames.ie
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
Visit our PAAC page: Pre-Anaesthetic Assessment Clinic | St James's Hospital
St James' Hospital Website: https://www.stjames.ie
Abbreviations:
PAAC: Pre-Anaesthetic Assessment Clinic
GA – General anaesthetic
IV – Intravenous
ET – endotracheal
LMA – laryngeal mask airway
This podcast is for general guidance and information only. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding a medical condition.
Music created and recorded by Niall Malone & Mikey Murray.
Recording & Sound Production by Kevin at Philtrum Pictures.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Pain and Your Recovery, explained in episode 11 of ‘Operation Preparation’ aims to show patients how immediate post operative pain is managed by the anaesthetic team. Good pain management is key to a good recovery!
For more information: Check out the Operation Preparation ‘Steps For A Stronger Start’ website: www.stjames.ie/operationpreparation
Email us with questions/topics you would like us to cover here at perioperativepodcast@Stjames.ie
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
Visit our PAAC page: Pre-Anaesthetic Assessment Clinic | St James's Hospital
St James' Hospital Website: https://www.stjames.ie
Abbreviations:
PAAC: Pre-Anaesthetic Assessment Clinic
NSAID: Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory
PCA: Patient Controlled Analgesia
PRN: as needed (pro re nata)
This podcast is for general guidance and information only. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding a medical condition.
Music created and recorded by Niall Malone & Mikey Murray.
Recording & Sound Production by Kevin at Philtrum Pictures.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The 10th episode in ‘Operation Preparation’ helps to clarify for listeners the difference between the types of ‘lines and tubes’ used to help monitor and keep patients safe during and after their surgery. Waking up to an abundance of these different lines and tubes can be overwhelming and cause anxiety. This episode aims to clarify the reasons why these different ‘lines and tubes’ are necessary and help prepare future patients.
Find a video of ‘lines and tubes’ here: https://vimeo.com/1078288157
For more information: Check out the Operation Preparation ‘Steps For A Stronger Start’ website: www.stjames.ie/operationpreparation
Email us with questions/topics you would like us to cover here at perioperativepodcast@Stjames.ie
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
Visit our PAAC page: Pre-Anaesthetic Assessment Clinic | St James's Hospital
St James' Hospital Website: https://www.stjames.ie
Abbreviations:
PAAC: Pre-Anaesthetic Assessment Clinic
IV – Intravenous
ECG – Electrocardiogram
NG – Nasogastric
This podcast is for general guidance and information only. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding a medical condition.
Music created and recorded by Niall Malone & Mikey Murray.
Recording & Sound Production by Kevin at Philtrum Pictures.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In episode 9, the PAAC team talk about the Recovery Room and what to expect when you are waking up from surgery. Listen to this episode to learn more about what a typical recovery room looks and sounds like, how common side effects are managed and how you can be the best advocate in your own immediate post operative care.
Find a video of a typical recovery room here: https://vimeo.com/1017477482
For more information: Check out the Operation Preparation ‘Steps For A Stronger Start’ website: www.stjames.ie/operationpreparation
Email us with questions/topics you would like us to cover here at perioperativepodcast@Stjames.ie
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
Visit our PAAC page: Pre-Anaesthetic Assessment Clinic | St James's Hospital
St James' Hospital Website: https://www.stjames.ie
Abbreviations:
PAAC: Pre-Anaesthetic Assessment Clinic
This podcast is for general guidance and information only. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding a medical condition.
Music created and recorded by Niall Malone & Mikey Murray.
Recording & Sound Production by Kevin at Philtrum Pictures.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In episode 8 of ‘Operation Preparation’ our hosts explain the importance of knowing and understanding your medications and medication management around the time of your surgery. The team highlight how a detailed list of your medications will be sought out as part of your individualised care, followed by clear pre and post operative instructions.
For more information: Check out the Operation Preparation ‘Steps For A Stronger Start’ website: www.stjames.ie/operationpreparation
Know Check Ask leaflet: https://www.hse.ie/eng/about/who/nqpsd/patient-safety-programme/medication-safety/my-medicine-list.pdf
My Health App: https://www2.hse.ie/health-app/
Email us questions/topics you would like us to cover here at: perioperativepodcast@Stjames.ie
The transcripts of this episode can be found here.
Visit our PAAC page: Pre-Anaesthetic Assessment Clinic | St James's Hospital
St James' Hospital Website: https://www.stjames.ie
Abbreviations:
PAAC: Pre-Anaesthetic Assessment Clinic
GP: General Practitioner
HSE: Health Service Executive
This podcast is for general guidance and information only. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding a medical condition.
Music created and recorded by Niall Malone & Mikey Murray.
Recording & Sound Production by Kevin at Philtrum Pictures.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 7 explains why patients fast before their procedure. Listen here to gain more of an understanding of fasting that will help decrease the risk of avoidable delays and cancellations to your surgery.
For more information: Check out the Operation Preparation ‘Steps For A Stronger Start’ website:www.stjames.ie/operationpreparation
Email us questions/topics you would like us to cover here at: perioperativepodcast@Stjames.ie
The transcripts of this episode can be found here.
Visit our PAAC page: Pre-Anaesthetic Assessment Clinic | St James's Hospital
St James' Hospital Website: https://www.stjames.ie
Abbreviations:
PAAC: Pre-Anaesthetic Assessment Clinic
NG: Nasogastric
This podcast is for general guidance and information only. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding a medical condition.
Music created and recorded by Niall Malone & Mikey Murray.
Recording & Sound Production by Kevin at Philtrum Pictures.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In its seasonal finale, the team explore how patients can improve their health before they have surgery, and highlights the importance of involving PAAC in the pre-operative journey. Seeing delays and cancellations reduced, and outcomes improved. Patients who are awaiting their surgery are also encouraged to visit the 'Steps for a Stronger Start' webpage.
For more information: Check out the Operation Preparation 'Steps for A Stronger Start' webpage here. The transcript of this episode can also be found here.
You can visit the PAAC webpage here and the St James's Hospital website here.
Email the team with questions/topics you would like us to cover
here at perioperativepodcast@stjames.ie.
Abbreviations:
PAAC: Pre Anaesthetic Assessment Clinic
HSE: Health Service Executive
ECG: electrocardiogram
This podcast is for general guidance and information only. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding a medical condition. Music created and recorded by Niall Malone & Mikey Murray. Recording & Sound Production by Kevin at Philtrum Pictures.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This episode of 'Operation Preparation' the team discuss the journey of an in-patient and DOSA patients. This episode discusses the various ways a patients can be admitted before their surgery, and what to expect in relation to fasting, medication guidance , as well as some top tips for your inpatient stay.
Find a video of the DOSA admissions process and theatre here.
For more information: Check out the Operation Preparation 'Steps for A Stronger Start' webpage here. The Transcript of this episode can also be found here.
You can visit the PAAC webpage here and the St James's Hospital website here.
Email the team with questions/topics you would like us to cover
here at perioperativepodcast@stjames.ie.
Abbreviations:
PAAC: Pre Anaesthetic Assessment Clinic
DOSA: Day of Surgery Admission
ECG: Electrocardiogram
GP: General Practitioner
This podcast is for general guidance and information only. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding a medical condition. Music created and recorded by Niall Malone & Mikey Murray. Recording & Sound Production by Kevin at Philtrum Pictures.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode four of 'Operation Preparation' will guide you through your Surgical Day Ward journey. The team begin by giving detailed to directions to the ward on St James's Hospital campus, followed by explaining fasting instructions and medication advice and discharge policy. This discussion explains what patients can expect from the time they are admitted until they are discharged to go home.
For more information: Check out the Operation Preparation 'Steps for A Stronger Start' webpage here. Transcripts of this episode can also be found here.
You can visit the PAAC webpage here and the St James's Hospital website here.
Find a video of the Surgical Day Ward here.
Email the team with questions/topics you would like us to cover here at perioperativepodcast@stjames.ie.
Abbreviations:
PAAC: Pre Anaesthetic Assessment Clinic
GP: General Practitioner
ECG: Electrocardiogram
This podcast is for general guidance and information only. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding a medical condition. Music created and recorded by Niall Malone & Mikey Murray. Recording & Sound Production by Kevin at Philtrum Pictures.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ahead of your upcoming operation it's important to be fully informed, in episode three of 'Operation Preparation', the team discuss the different types of anaesthesia that is available to patients. This includes the benefits and potential side effects of an anaesthetic, how common side effects are managed, how we keep you safe while you're asleep, the decision-making process and what to expect in the anaesthetic room.
For more information: Check out the Operation Preparation 'Steps for A Stronger Start' webpage here. Transcripts of this episode can also be found here.
You can visit the PAAC webpage here and the St James's Hospital website here.
Email the team with questions/topics you would like us to cover
here at perioperativepodcast@stjames.ie.
Abbreviations:
PAAC: Pre Anaesthetic Assessment Clinic
BP: Blood Pressure
GP: General Practitioner
This podcast is for general guidance and information only. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding a medical condition. Music created and recorded by Niall Malone & Mikey Murray. Recording & Sound Production by Kevin at Philtrum Pictures.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode two of ‘Operation Preparation’ the team discuss what to expect at your PAAC appointment. Not knowing what to expect at an appointment can often be intimidating. In this episode the team discuss topics such as; Why you should attend the appointment, how you receive the appointment details, where to find the clinic, how to prepare for the appointment, what to expect along with other pieces of information.
For more information: Check out the Operation Preparation 'Steps for A Stronger Start' webpage here. The transcript of this episode can also be found here.
You can visit the PAAC webpage here and the St James's Hospital website here.
Email the team with questions/topics you would like us to cover here at perioperativepodcast@stjames.ie.
Abbreviations:
PAAC: Pre Anaesthetic Assessment Clinic
ECG: Electrocardiogram
GP: General Practitioner
This podcast is for general guidance and information only. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding a medical condition. Music created and recorded by Niall Malone & Mikey Murray. Recording & Sound Production by Kevin at Philtrum Pictures.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to the first episode of ‘Operation Preparation’, a podcast that aims to empower patients to take steps for a stronger start on their surgical journey. In episode one, we’re introduced to our hosts, the Pre Anaesthetic Assessment Clinic Team at St James’s Hospital, and learn about each individual’s roles.
For more information: Check out the Operation Preparation 'Steps for A Stronger Start' webpage here. The transcript of this episode can also be found here.
You can visit the PAAC webpage here and the St James's Hospital website here.
Email the team with questions/topics you would like us to cover here at perioperativepodcast@stjames.ie.
Abbreviations:
PAAC: Pre Anaesthetic Assessment Clinic
This podcast is for general guidance and information only. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding a medical condition. Music created and recorded by Niall Malone & Mikey Murray. Recording & Sound Production by Kevin at Philtrum Pictures.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.