Pre-Op Instructions

 

WEEK BEFORE SURGERY

Do NOT Take Aspirin, Vitamin E or blood thinners for one week before surgery. These medications cause the blood to thin and this could cause bleeding complications during surgery. Bring all of your home medications with you when you preregister. The pre-op nurse from the hospital/facility will instruct you on which medications can be taken the morning of surgery.

DAY BEFORE SURGERY

Please note that the hospital or facility makes the surgery schedule and the order of cases. The hospital or facility will let you know what time they want you to arrive prior to surgery.

EVENING BEFORE SURGERY

DO NOT EAT OR DRINK anything after midnight (including water, coffee, juice, chewing gum, medication or breath mints). An outpatient nurse from the hospital/facility will call you prior to the date of your surgery to inform you of what time you will need to be at the hospital.

THINGS TO REMEMBER FOR CHILDREN

Remove all baby bottles from the crib at night. Inform all family members that the child should not be given anything by mouth after midnight for surgery the next day. If appropriate for the age of the child, remove all drinking glasses from the bathroom.

You may bring the child in pajamas. For infants, you may bring formula or special drinking cups for use after surgery. Children may bring a favorite blanket or soft, small toy. Parents, if possible, do not bring other children with you the day of surgery.

THINGS TO REMEMBER FOR ADULTS

No alcoholic beverages 48 hours prior to or following surgery. A responsible adult must be available to drive you home following surgery. Please leave all jewelry at home. Remove nail polish and make-up. If you wear contact lenses, bring a case to store them during surgery. Bring all home medications with you to the hospital.

TIP

Avoid nicotine for 2 weeks before and 2 weeks after surgery as this can interfere with the wound healing and cause delays in your medical management. For those patients coming in from out of town, remember to bring post-operative medications with you so they are available to you after surgery and on the trip home.

AFTER THE SURGERY

Instructions will be given to you regarding activity, diet,medications, restrictions and follow-up care. We will call to check your postoperative progress and make sure that you have everything you need. Our goal is to help you have a quick and uneventful have before or after surgery