Making every contact counts: The role of Perioperative Care Practitioners in health promotion

Health promotion has been made as one of the top priorities by the Lord Darzi's independent investigation of the NHS. Patients who smoke have increased risks of perioperative complications. Similarly, alcohol consumption is linked with higher rates of perioperative infections. Resident anaesthetists and the multidisciplinary team are in unique positions to positively influence patients and promote lifestyle modifications. Transformations of education, working culture and integration of primary and secondary health systems are vital in achieving true holistic perioperative care.