Preparing for Surgery

You may have some concerns about having surgery. We staff wants to ensure that all of your questions are answered and you have an excellent patient care experience. This information may help as you prepare for surgery and your journey towards better health.

Before Surgery

• Arrange ahead of time for a reliable friend or relative to drive you home after the surgery. You will not be released to drive yourself home if you have had anesthesia, sedation or pain medication.
• Arrange for someone to stay with you for 24 hours following surgery, and dependable childcare, if necessary.
• Ask your surgeon if you should stop taking aspirin or blood thinners prior to surgery.
• Gather all relevant insurance information ahead of time. Find out if you will be asked for a co-pay or deductible payment.
• Diabetics: Contact your physician to find out how much insulin you are to take the morning of surgery.
• Double check the time of your surgery and arrive 2 hours beforehand, unless otherwise instructed.
• Do not eat solid foods 8 hours prior to surgery, unless your doctor or anesthesiologist has given you other instructions.

The Day of Surgery

• Bring your health plan or Medicare card.
• Bring a photo ID.
• Bring all medications (including inhalers) you are currently taking in their pharmacy labeled containers.
• You may drink clear liquids up to two hours before surgery. When you brush your teeth, rinse without swallowing.
• Do not smoke the day of your surgery.
• Shower or bathe to reduce the chance of infection.
• Wear loose comfortable clothing and flat, slip on shoes.
• Do not wear make-up or jewelry.
• Remove your glasses and contacts.
• If you have health changes or suspect you are pregnant prior to your surgery, contact your physician.

When You Arrive for Surgery

• The nurse will do a physical assessment and review your medical history.
• An IV will be started in your arm.
• Your anesthesiologist will review your medical history, test results and may ask you some questions.
• For some types of surgery, you may have hair trimmed from an area of your body.
• If you have questions or concerns, ask your pre-operative nurse before you go into surgery.

After Surgery

• A family member or friend may join you in the recovery area.
• You may be given ice chips or sips of water. Your surgeon or nurse will tell you what foods you can eat.
• Tests may be ordered after your surgery.
• A member of the surgery staff will go over your discharge instructions and at-home care.

When you go home

• Report any fever over 101 degrees to your surgeon.
• Report any redness, swelling or drainage of your surgery site.
• Do not drive, operate machinery, drink alcohol or sign legal documents for 24 hours after surgery or as instructed.
• Follow your surgeon’s directions and take medication as instructed.
• Keep your follow-up appointment.