Well, I had the screening today and as you all pointed out it was not a test I could cram for but through sheer dumb luck or latent good Karma seemed to have passed. Came away feeling like all concerned (RN's and PA's) were very concerned about me and the outcome of the procedure. Everyone took the time to answer my questions and improve my understanding of the operation, post op period, recovery and rehab. Still a little freaked out about the anesthesia (hate being knocked out), but the rest of it seems like I hill I can climb.
And, in case others in N.E Ohio follow me down this path I'd like to note that I was pleasantly surprised by Euclid Hospital, where the good doctor will perform the magic. I haven't been there in 30 or so years (hockey injury) and I was impressed by what I saw of the facility - clean, well lit, and well structured - and the staff. Right from the receptionist who walked me back to my next station, the lovely older woman who processed my insurance and contact info, the RN and PA who did my physical, everyone I interacted with was very nice, caring, and professional. The site too is quite charming, sitting right on the lake with grounds that seem to favor patient and staff use rather than logistics and parking. All in all I would have to say that as far as hospitals go, Euclid is a little and perhaps unknown gem in the Cleveland Clinic system. I may not recommend it for a weekend of fun and frolic, but if you have to get some med work done and you have the choice, I'd give a look at Euclid.
So there it is, one week to go and I'm prepped and ready. As my DW points out, some that follow may be interested so I'll drop a post when I'm on the other side and wearing the new hardware.
Thanks again to all of you for your replies and sharing your stories.
V/R,
Shelby