Depending upon which hospital you are having your procedure, you will be called either the week or afternoon before your surgery. The nurse will tell you when to arrive for your procedure.
You are responsible for verifying with your physician what medication you need to take the morning of surgery. If your physician has not told you what medication to take prior to surgery, the nurse will review this with you. Medications may be taken with only a sip of water the day of your surgery.
Unless otherwise instructed by your doctor, you should stop any medications containing aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen) or antihistamines seven days before your surgery. If you need medications for pain, use Tylenol or a prescription medication approved by your surgeon.
If you develop a cold, sore throat or other illness notify your physician as soon as possible.
The skin around your surgical site must be free of any rash, pimples, cuts or insect bites. Notify your physician if any of these conditions develop prior to your surgery.
If you have any X-rays, MRIs, lab results or other paperwork from your physician, bring them with you to the Hospital the morning of surgery and give them to your nurse when you arrive at the Ambulatory Surgery Unit.
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Remember: Do not eat or drink after midnight the night before surgery—this includes water, coffee or breakfast the morning of your surgery. If you eat or drink anything your surgery will be canceled. Ask your surgeon if you can take your scheduled prescription medications the morning of surgery – if so, only use small sips of water.
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If you are an outpatient, it is mandatory that a responsible adult must either drive or accompany you home after surgery. You also may want to arrange for someone to be available to help you the first evening you arrive home.
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If you wear contact lenses, bring your contact case and solution to the hospital. You may want to wear glasses that day. The hospital will provide containers for dentures or partials.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that will be appropriate to wear home. If you plan an overnight or extended stay you can bring: a robe, brush, comb, toothbrush, contact lens case and solution, eyeglasses and case and reading materials.
Please do not bring valuable items to the hospital. Leave items such as jewelry, credit cards and money at home. The hospital nurses and secretaries are not responsible for personal property.