One hundred and sixty six patients were questioned by means of a multiple choice questionnaire, to determine their knowledge of peri-operative care, anaesthesia and the rôle of anaesthetists. In general, knowledge was good, but there were some important misconceptions; in particular, 28.3% of respondents thought that fasting referred to food only, and not to fluid intake. In addition, 47.6% of respondents considered pain to be a necessary part of the healing process and 38.6% believed that it was something that just had to be endured. When forthcoming anaesthesia is discussed, anaesthetists need to ascertain that patients really do understand the language used.