THE NIGHT BEFORE YOUR SURGERY

  • Do not eat or drink anything after midnight including water, coffee, cola, candies and gum.
  • For your own safety, please arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home after surgery.
  • If directed by your physician, take daily medications with only a sip of water.
  • Have any ordered prescriptions filled prior to surgery date.
  • Use these detailed instructions if you are having a colonoscopy.

THE MORNING OF YOUR SURGERY

  • If you are diabetic, please refer to your medical doctor for instructions the day of your surgery.
  • To decrease the chance of infection, shower and shampoo hair. Do not apply lotions, oils or powders to the surgery site. Please do not shave your surgical site.
  • Do not wear perfumes, heavy makeup or nail polish.
  • If you are having any hand or wrist surgery, false fingernails must be removed before you arrive.
  • Dentures, glasses, contact lenses, hearing aids, etc., may be removed prior to surgery.
  • Please leave all of your valuables at home. This includes money, jewelry, earrings, body piercings, etc.
  • Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing that will fit comfortably over your surgical site or limb after surgery.

BEFORE YOU LEAVE THE HOSPITAL

  • Tell your doctor or nurse about any questions that you have
  • Make sure you understand how to care for your wound
  • Know who to contact if you have questions or problems at home

AFTER YOUR SURGERY

  • Surgery times vary, so please plan your stay to be approximately 2-4 hours. After you leave the operating room, you will be taken to the recovery room until you are ready to return home.
  • Again, for you own safety, a responsible adult must drive you home!
  • Always clean your hands before and after caring for your wounds
  • A responsible adult should stay with you during the first 24 hours after your surgery.
  • You will receive a follow-up call from one of our nurses to discuss any concerns you may have after surgery.
  • If you have any symptoms of infection such as redness, pain at the surgery site, drainage or fever, call your doctor immediately.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

  • Please notify the hospital staff/surgeon as soon as possible if an unexpected event occurs to postpone or cancel your surgery
  • Occasionally, due to emergencies or unforeseen occurrences, your surgery may be delayed or moved to an earlier time. We apologize, in advance, for any inconvenience this may cause you.
  • Use these detailed instructions if you are having a colonoscopy.  

IF YOU NEED HELP

Our health care professionals are here to provide you with a safe and successful outcome. Please contact our Surgery Department with any questions or concerns you may have.

907-235-0260

Leave Message at 907-235-0261 after 5 pm