All patients undergo a screening exam either by questionnaire or in person (if convenient) prior to setting a date for their operation. Patients then arrive at the clinic the afternoon before their surgery, receive a brief preoperative examination, and see an admissions clerk to complete paperwork. They are next directed to one of the two nurses stations for blood and urine tests and then are shown to their rooms. Orientation begins at 5 P.M., followed by dinner in the dining room. Patients gather in the lounge area at 9:00 P.M. for tea and cookies.