In the preoperative phase, nurses are responsible for preparing patients both physically and emotionally for surgery. This involves conducting a thorough assessment of the patient's health status, reviewing medical history, and ensuring that all necessary pre-surgical tests have been completed. Nurses also provide education on the surgical procedure, what to expect, and postoperative care instructions. They play a crucial role in alleviating anxiety by answering questions and addressing concerns, thus fostering a sense of trust and reassurance.