Surgery Planning
Inpatient Surgery Checklist:
- Make arrangements for assistance at home after your hospital stay.
- Complete first soap shower.
- Complete second soap shower.
- Do not eat or drink after midnight the night before your procedure
- Take medication the morning of surgery, as instructed, with a sip of water
- Bring medications from home in their original containers if you did not bring them to your pre-admission visit, or if instructed by your nurse.
- Bring sleep apnea assists, such as CPAP or BiPAP.
- Leave valuables, including jewelry, at home.
Outpatient Surgery Checklist:
- Have an adult driver ready to bring you home from the hospital.
- Have a family member or close friend as caregiver to help support you for the first 24 hours after surgery
- Complete first soap shower
- Complete second soap shower
- Wear comfortable, loose clothing with zippers or buttons
- Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your procedure.
- Take medication the morning of surgery, as instructed, with a sip of water.
- Bring medications from home in their original containers if you did not bring them to your pre-admission visit, or if instructed by your nurse.
- Leave valuables, including jewelry, at home.
Going Home:
When it's time to go back home, be sure you fully understand the instructions given by your nurse or doctor. If you don't understand, please ask. If you have an outpatient procedure, it is unlikely you will need to spend the night in the hospital. You will need to stay until you are able to drink fluids, go to the bathroom, your vital signs are stable and your pain is under control.
Your recovery time will depend upon the type of procedure you have undergone, and the anesthesia used. The Surgery Nurse will provide you with instructions for your care at home. Below are some topics that may be discussed:
► Prescription Medications
► Diet and eating
► Activities and exercise
► Driving
► Returning to work
► Bandages and dressings
► Bathing/Showering
► Pain management expectations
► Incision care and stitches
► Signs of infection
► Follow up visits
► Contact information if concerns arise or conditions change
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