Table 2 Acceptable reasons for delaying surgery in hip fracture patients according to the guideline for the management of hip fractures 2020 by the Association of Anaesthetists [39, 49]

Haemoglobin concentration < 8 g dL

Lack of facilities or theatre space

Plasma sodium concentration < 120 or > 150 mmol/l

Awaiting echocardiography

Potassium concentration < 2.8 or > 6.0 mmol/l

Unavailable surgical expertise

Uncontrolled diabetes

Minor electrolyte abnormalities

Uncontrolled or acute onset left ventricular failure

Correctable cardiac arrhythmia with a ventricular rate > 120 min

Chest infection with sepsis

Reversible coagulopathy