She discusses how patients can improve their physical and mental health prior to surgery, including using the Fitter, Better, Sooner toolkit produced by the Royal College of Anaesthetists.

The toolkit shows how patients can optimise their health, lifestyle and activity levels to maximise their chances of a good recovery.

Hilary says anaesthetists and pre-assessment nurses are already successfully using Fitter, Better, Sooner.

However, there is currently little information for patients to read in GP surgeries, health centres, clinics and other public places on what patients can do to prepare for surgery.

Self Care Week 2019 runs from 18-24 November.

Read the full blog here.