Prepare for Surgery

At Your Physician’s Office

You will complete a medical history and sign your physician’s informed consent. (We will also ask you to sign surgical and anesthesia consents on your day of surgery.)

Leading up to your day of surgery, if you continue to have questions about your procedure, please call your physician. Notify your physician prior to your surgery if you experience any change in your physical condition, such as a cold, cough or fever.

Planning for Your Day

You must arrange to have a responsible adult accompany and drive you home after surgery.

During your procedure, your companion may remain in the waiting room to receive updates about your progress and your surgeon’s post-surgery report. (For pediatric patients, both parents may remain with their child until surgery.)

You are required to have a responsible adult drive you home after discharge, since you will still be affected by the anesthesia. You will not be permitted to drive yourself home. If you will be using public transport and ridesharing services, you must have a responsible adult travel home with you after your discharge—do not rely on the transport driver. Finally, you must have a responsible adult stay with you for the first 24 hours at home to monitor your recovery. If this is a problem, tell our nurse when she calls.

What To Do The Day Before

Important Things to Do

  • Bring a picture ID. If your ID does not include your address, bring another proof of your physical address, such as a current utility bill. A P.O. box is not sufficient.

  • Bring your health insurance card and any required payment.

  • Bring a list of any medications or supplements (or their containers) you are taking.

  • Bathe or shower the night before or early in the morning to minimize the risk of infection.

  • Bring your glasses, hearing aids and dentures with storage cases.

  • On the day of surgery, dress for comfort and security. Wear loose fitting clothing that is easily removed and foldable. Wear shoes that are easy to put on and don’t have heels. Do not wear contact lenses.

Eating and Drinking Instructions

  • Tell your doctor if you are taking medication for diabetes. Your doctor may want to adjust your dosage(s) or have you stop taking these medications before your procedure.

  • DO NOT skip your usual medications taken for your heart, blood pressure, or breathing conditions. If you use a prescription inhaler you should bring it with you.

  • Stop eating food and drinking nonclear liquids 8 hours before your scheduled arrival time for surgery.

  • Drink clear liquids, such as water, clear apple juice, and black coffee or tea without milk or milk substitute, up to 2 hours before your scheduled arrival time. This will help you stay hydrated and feel less hungry.

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