Before Surgery

  • Important Instructions

Important Instructions

The day before surgery (or on Friday if your surgery is on Monday), you will receive a phone call from the pre-op nurse. The nurse will tell you when and where to come for your surgery and other special instructions, such as eating, drinking and medications you may or may not take.

It is important to follow these instructions for your personal safety, comfort and recovery. If you do not follow these instructions, your surgery may be cancelled.

Diet

  • Follow special diet instructions and the specific time to stop eating or drinking prior to surgery. Eating or drinking anything (water, candy, gum, etc.) may result in the need to cancel surgery.

Transportation

  • If you are going home the same day of surgery you must have someone drive you home.
  • Make sure your driver or a family member can pick up any prescriptions you might need.
  • You may also need to have someone stay with you for the first 24 hours after you go home.

Personal Care

  • Shower before surgery to remove make-up, lotions, perfumes or powders, which could keep tape and special monitoring equipment from sticking to your body.
  • Remove false nails and nail or toe polish to make it easier to check your circulation.
  • Brush your teeth, if desired, but do not swallow the water. If you wear dentures, a case will be provided.
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing to allow room for any dressings, braces, etc., you may need after surgery.

Personal Health

  • Tell your doctor if you have any type of infection (especially on the skin where surgery will be done), dental infection or tooth abscesses, cold, flu, rash, fever or loose bowels.
  • Do not drink any alcoholic beverages at least two days before surgery. Alcohol can react with medications, interfere with recovery, and cause serious complications.
  • Try to stop smoking at least two weeks before surgery to improve your lung function and circulation and speed healing. If you are interested in help, ask your nurse for information about Carle's resources to help you reduce or quit smoking. All Carle facilities are smoke-free.

Gifts and Cards

  • Depending on your length of stay, you may want to request that friends and family send flowers or get well greetings directly to your home.