Day of Surgery To Do List
Click here for the printable checklist (pdf)
- Call your physician if you develop any cold or flu symptoms (cough, sore throat, runny nose, vomiting, and diarrhea, fever or exposure to infectious diseases) or any other medical problems before your surgery.
- Avoid the following:
- Alcoholic beverages 24 hours before your surgery
- Smoking or chewing tobacco after midnight the day before surgery
- Eating or drinking after midnight the night before surgery, unless otherwise directed. This includes mints, chewing gum and hard candy.
- Bathe or shower the night before or the morning of your surgery. If you wash your hair, make sure it is completely dried.
- Brush your teeth and/or use mouthwash (but do not swallow the water).
- Wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing. Remove all body piercings. Avoid makeup, jewelry, contact lenses or metal hair clips the day of surgery. Leave money and jewelry at home.
- Bring your medication list with you. Contact your physician prior to the day of surgery for instructions on how to manage your diabetes on the day of surgery. Take the medications that you have been told to take with a sip of water only. Click here for printable medication list organizer
- Bring glasses and hearing aids if you rely on them. Wear dentures and/or partials. They may or may not be removed for surgery, depending on the type of surgery you are having.
- Bring a copy of your Living Will or Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare, if applicable.
- Arrive at the time given to you by the nurse. Park in the main parking lot and enter through the Main Entrance. Stop at the Registration Desk in the Front Lobby.
- Make arrangements for a responsible adult (18 years or older) to take you home after surgery and to stay with you for 24 hours. While you are waiting for surgery in the pre-operative areas, you may have two family members or companions with you.
Patients seeking care at KishHealthSystem can expect to have their rights protected and met. This includes your right to personal and informational respect, privacy and confidentiality regarding your condition and care. You can expect to participate in decision making and impartial treatment regardless of your race, sex, religion, creed or nationality. You can expect to know the names and identity of the individuals providing your care. Information such as Advanced Care Directives and an itemized bill will be provided to you, as well as a grievance process. As an active participant in your care, you will want to be sure and provide accurate and complete information, particularly as it relates to your treatment plan. This includes providing information regarding your Power of Attorney or Advanced Directives, when appropriate. We anticipate you’re letting us know of your expectations and when you have questions about your instructions. It is important that you have an adult who can transport you home and remain with you for 24 hours. You are responsible for your own actions, even when they do not agree with the medical advice you are receiving, and accepting/assuring financial responsibility for your medical expenses.
