Which laboratory tests are commonly ordered before surgery?

The choice of complete blood count (CBC) and coagulation studies is commonly ordered before surgery due to their critical role in evaluating a patient's overall health and readiness for the surgical procedure. A CBC provides essential information about the patient's blood cells, including red blood cells (which carry oxygen), white blood cells (which indicate the immune response), and platelets (which are crucial for blood clotting). Knowing these values helps identify any underlying conditions such as anemia or infections that could complicate the surgical process.

Coagulation studies assess the blood's ability to clot properly. This is especially important before surgery to minimize the risk of excessive bleeding during and after the procedure. These tests help identify any potential clotting disorders or the need for interventions such as vitamin K administration or adjustments in anticoagulant therapy.

While the other options contain important tests, they do not address the immediate concerns related to surgery as directly as CBC and coagulation studies. For instance, blood glucose and liver function tests can be useful, particularly for patients with specific risk factors, but they are not universally required for every surgical patient. Similarly, thyroid function tests and urinalysis may provide insights into a patient's overall health, but they are less critical for immediate pre-operative decision-making. Lastly, imaging