Before Surgery

A A A
Print
Share

Use this checklist to help prepare for your surgery:

Several Days Before the Procedure:

  • ASK QUESTIONS! Write down any questions you have about your procedure and discuss them with your doctor. There are no bad questions.
  • Make sure your doctor is aware of any medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, aspirin and other over-the-counter medications, herbal remedies and vitamins. Ask your doctor if you should stop taking any or all of these for a period of time before your surgery.
  • Arrange in advance to have a family member or friend drive you home after your procedure. IT IS UNSAFE FOR YOU TO DRIVE AFTER SURGERY.
  • If you work, arrange for enough time off to recover fully from your surgery. Ask your doctor when you will be able to resume driving, work and other normal daily activities. A period of recovery at home is common.

The Day Before the Procedure

  • DO NOT eat or drink anything after the time specified by your physician or physician's staff. This includes gum, water, breath mints and vitamins.
  • Ask your doctor for specific instructions, as additional guidelines may apply to your case.

The Day of the Procedure

  • DO bathe or shower on the morning of your surgery to minimize the risk of infection.
  • DO wear clean, loose, comfortable clothing and low-heeled shoes to the surgery center.
  • DO bring any special toy or personal items that will provide comfort if you are bringing a child to the center for surgery.
  • DO review any specific instructions provided by your doctor to ensure that you have complied with them.
  • DO NOT consume alcohol prior to surgery. Ask your doctor when you need to discontinue consumption.
  • DO NOT smoke prior to surgery. Ask your doctor when you need to discontinue smoking.
  • DO NOT wear jewelry (including earring, body piercings, etc.) or valuables to the surgery center.
  • DO NOT wear contact lenses into surgery.
  • DO NOT wear make-up to the surgery center.
  • DO NOT EAT OR DRINK ANYTHING ON THE DAY OF YOUR SURGERY, including gum, water, breath mints and vitamins. Ask your doctor for specific instructions, as additional guidelines may apply in your case.

At any time before your procedure, notify your doctor immediately if:
  • There is a possibility that you are pregnant.
  • You experience any health changes, even if the changes seem minor, such as fever, cough, rash or a cold.