Preparing for Surgery

Preparing for Your Surgery

Before Surgery

• Pre-register (insurance verification) for your surgery visit
• Complete the “One Medical Passport” Anesthesia Questionnaire on line
• Complete any necessary blood work, X-ray or EKG prior to the day of your surgery.
• Arrange for someone to drive you home, if having outpatient surgery.
• Make sure that a responsible adult stays with you for the rest of the day and through the night following surgery.

The Night Before Surgery

• Do not eat any food after 12 midnight. Do not chew gum.
• You may drink water, apple juice or ginger ale up to three (3) hours before your arrival time at the hospital
• If you still smoke, we recommend that you not smoke the day before surgery.

The Day of Surgery

• MEDICATIONS: Take all your usual medications the morning of surgery, except insulin or blood sugar lowering medications, unless directed otherwise.
• Shower or bathe to minimize the chance of infection.
• Do not wear make-up, nail polish or lipstick.
• Wear comfortable clothing appropriate for your surgery (shorts or sweats for lower extremity procedures, button down shirt for upper extremity procedures, loose clothing for abdomen). You will want to avoid any unnecessary pressure on sensitive surgery sites.
• Wear flat shoes. Slip on styles are best.
• Bring proof of identification and insurance card with you.
• Leave jewelry and other valuables at home.
• If you wear contact lenses you will be asked to remove them prior to surgery. Please bring your glasses and lens case with solution.
• If your young child will be having surgery, please bring a comforting toy or blanket.
• For patients under 18, a parent or legal guardian must accompany the patient to sign consent forms, and stay at the hospital while your child is here.