What to Bring / What NOT to Bring

About Your Lab Work

If you’ve had lab work done within 14 days prior, please provide us with the date and where the lab work was performed. On the day of surgery, your physician may require additional tests. If additional tests are needed, your anesthesiologist and surgeon may ask you questions regarding your health history.

Minors and Guardianship

If the patient is a minor or an adult unable to sign for himself or herself, please bring proof of guardianship or medical power of attorney. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Surgery-Day Checklist

It’s important to be prepared and know what to do and not to do before your procedure. To make your surgery as comfortable as possible, please review the following helpful tips.

Your surgery to-do list:

  • Check in to the hospital 90 minutes prior to your scheduled surgery time or as directed by your doctor 
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing you can easily put on after surgery
  • Plan for a family or friend to drive you home from surgery and stay with you for the first 24 hours
  • If the patient is a child, bring a comfort item like a blanket or toy, and be sure two adults are available at discharge: one to drive and another to supervise
  • Bring a copy of Advance Directives, if available

The Day Before Your Surgery

On the day before your surgery:

  • Make arrangements for an adult to accompany you
  • Notify your doctor if you have any changes in your health (develop flu-like symptoms, fever, cough, runny nose or if you find out you are pregnant)
  • Do not eat or drink after midnight unless directed by your doctor (includes no hard candy or chewing gum)
  • Do not smoke after midnight

Returning Home

Your physician will provide discharge instructions regarding diet, activity limits or recommendations, and medications.

For the next 24 to 48 hours, avoid the following activities:

  • Driving or operating equipment
  • Signing important documents
  • Making important decisions
  • Drinking alcohol
  • Strenuous activity

You will receive a follow-up call within 24 hours to see how you are doing.

If you have any questions or are experiencing problems, call your doctor.

Patients

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