Pre-Admission Unit

The Pre-Admission Unit (PAU) is an outpatient clinic designed to prepare patients for their upcoming cardiac surgery or procedure at the Ottawa Heart Institute. After a surgeon or cardiologist’s referral, patients visit the PAU clinic while they wait for an upcoming procedure. We ensure  assessments, tests and educational information are available to patients and their families prior to their surgery or procedure date.

What to expect

Our specialized team of nurses, anesthesiologists and allied healthcare professionals will conduct health assessments and physical exams during your PAU appointment.

If necessary, we may conduct further testing, such as blood tests, an electrocardiogram (ECG), a chest X-ray, and urine analysis.

You will also receive your pre-operative education, anesthetic plan, and instructions to prepare you for the day of your surgery.

Please prepare to be at your appointment for up to two hours.

Patient instructions

You will begin by registering at the front entrance of the Heart Institute, prior to checking in for your appointment in the PAU.

Please bring the following items to your appointment.

• Your medication in its original bottle(s), including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medication, supplements, and herbal medicines. This is mandatory to review with the nurses and anesthesiologists to determine what medications to stop or continue prior to surgery.
• Your health card.

Referrals

Heart Institute cardiologists and cardiac surgeons must refer patients to the Pre-Admission Unit.

Patient resources

We encourage patients to register for MyChart ahead of upcoming appointments (see link below for answers to frequently asked questions about MyChart).

• MyChart Patient Portal: FAQ
• Coming for a clinic appointment
• Cardiac anesthesiology
• Waiting for cardiac surgery
• Quit Smoking Program