• Do not eat or drink anything, including water, after midnight the day of your procedure unless otherwise instructed by your physician or the facility. You may brush your teeth, taking care not to swallow any water.
• Follow your doctor’s orders regarding the taking of any medications the night before or the day of your procedure.
• Refrain from smoking after midnight the day of your procedure.
• Bathe or shower the morning of your procedure.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing such as sweat pants or baggy shorts, which will fit over bandages or dressings following surgery.
• Wear low heeled, comfortable shoes.
• Do not wear contact lenses.
• Remove makeup and jewelry.
• Leave valuables at home.
• Pediatric patients may appreciate a favorite blanket or stuffed animal for reassurance.
• Your doctor may prescribe medication for you to take following your surgery. Bring your insurance card and the means to pay for your medications.
• If you have an Advanced Directive or Living Will, bring a copy with you to the facility.
• Bring a list of all your medications, including any herbal or homeopathic supplements, and any over-the-counter drugs that you take on a regular basis. Include full name, strength and dosage information with everything you write on this list. Check with the facility regarding any of your medications that may need to be brought with you to the facility (inhalers, insulin, etc.)
• Arrive promptly at the scheduled time. Occasionally schedules run ahead of time. If you plan to be away from home the day of your procedure, or if you are from out of town, please call the facility with an alternate telephone number where you can be reached. They may call and ask you to come in earlier.
• Your physician should mark the site he or she will conduct the surgery on before your procedure begins. Don’t be afraid to ask your physician to do this to make your surgery safer.
• During your stay, your pain will be assessed through the use of a pain scale and a pain management plan will be established. Effective pain management will be an important part of your plan of care. Notify your physician or staff when you have pain.