Preparing for Surgery

PRE-SURGERY INSTRUCTIONS

On the night before your surgery do not eat or drink anything after midnight. This includes food, water, coffee, candy/breath mints, cigarettes, chewing or dipping tobacco, and chewing gum. You must also have a responsible person to drive you home upon discharge.

WHAT TO BRING

Toothbrush, toilet articles, bathrobe, non-slip foot wear, nightgown or pajamas. Maternity patients should include an infant car seat as well as an outfit for the baby to wear home.

WHAT TO LEAVE HOME

Jewelry, money or anything of value. The hospital cannot be responsible for lost or stolen items. There is a vault available for emergency situations when valuables cannot be sent home with family members. Please speak to the nurse on duty if you must store articles in the vault. In the interest of patients and staff safety, the use of all privately-owned electrical appliances, coffee pots, hair dryers, electrical toothbrushes, televisions and radios is strictly prohibited.

MEDICATIONS

If you are currently taking any medications at home, please bring a list of those drugs with you. Also be certain to tell your nurse if you have any known allergies. Your physician will prescribe the drugs that you require during your hospitalization.

THE DAY OF YOUR SURGERY

You will be informed of what time to arrive at the hospital for your surgery. When you arrive, please register at the main admissions area on the First Floor of the hospital. Before your surgery, you will be asked to sign a consent form and allowed to ask any questions. You will also be given a hospital gown to wear. Underclothes, jewelry, hairpins, hairpieces, glasses, contact lenses and dentures must be removed before going to surgery.

PREVENTING THE SPREAD OF INFECTION

Some infectious agents have become resistant to the antibiotics we use. As a result, controlling diseases and preventing infections from spreading are more crucial than ever, and doing so begins with measures every individual can take.

Click here for Frequently asked questions about Surgical Site Infections (SSIs).