Preparation for Surgery

Preparing For Surgery- CHECKLIST

The following is a checklist that will help you prepare for your surgery.  Please take the time to plan ahead for your procedure so that your recovery goes as smooth as possible. 

• Do not eat or drink after midnight before your procedure.
  
• Communicate with your employer that you will be having surgery.  You may have special restrictions when returning to work that you and your employer need to plan for.
• Make sure you have someone that can help you the first 2-3 weeks after surgery with chores, changing dressings, etc….  This is especially important the first week, as your pain level may limit your ability to do simple tasks.
• Do not take anti-inflammatories (Advil, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Aleve, Motrin), herbal remedies or high doses of vitamin E one week before your surgery.  You may take Tylenol.
• Arrange your home to be as comfortable as possible  before surgery, so that no obstacles are encountered after surgery.
• Arrange transportation to and from the surgery center ahead of time. 
• Call the surgery center the morning of surgery to confirm your scheduled surgery and expected arrival time.  Sometimes the schedule may be slightly advanced or delayed.
• Arrange your Physical Therapy before surgery by contacting the therapy clinic.  Your first therapy visit should be scheduled within the first week after surgery.
• Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothes the day of surgery.
• Remove all jewelry and leave at home.