Instructions Prior to Surgery

What Activities are Okay?

On the day before surgery
  • Proceed with normal activities, normal diet
  • Shower
After midnight before the day of surgery
  • Do not eat or drink anything, including water, candy, gum, mints
  • Brushing teeth is okay
On the day of surgery
  • Do not eat or drink anything
  • Brushing teeth is okay
  • Shower if you did not shower the night before

These are typical instructions. Your instructions by your surgeon or doctor may vary.

Medications

If your physician has asked you to take critical medications, take the medication with a sip of water early in the morning of your surgery.

Some medications may cause extra bleeding and bruising, and should be stopped days to weeks before the day of surgery:

  • Aspirin
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen, Motrin, Aleve, Advil, Naprosyn, etc.)
  • Vitamin E
  • Herbal Medicines (especially Gingko Biloba)
  • Clopidrogel
  • Warfarin
  • Enoxaparin

Each patient is different. Please follow your surgeon or doctor’s recommendations on when exactly to stop taking these medications.

Instructions for Day of Surgery

On the Day of Surgery
  • Do not eat or drink anything. Brushing teeth is okay.
  • Shower if you did not shower the night before.
  • Take your medications with a small sip of water. In general, it is imperative that all blood pressure and heart medications are taken at their normal dose and any diabetic medication is taken at ½ the dose.
  • Do not wear makeup, nail polish, jewelry or contact lenses.
  • Wear loose comfortable clothing that is easy to change. Wear comfortable shoes or slippers.
  • Do not bring any valuables.

What to Bring

  • Identification Card
  • Insurance Information
  • List of Medications you are currently taking

Arriving Day of Surgery

Reach on time and report on Reception / Admission desk at the hospital. It is important to ensure that things move on time.

Advanced Medicine, Trusted Care. Advanced Medicine. Compassionate Care.