Morning of Surgery

If you are under the age of 18, your parent or guardian MUST be present before your surgery and sign a consent form in order for us to treat you.

Medications
Only take medications the preoperative assessment Registered Nurse has directed you to take.

Do not take insulin or oral diabetic drugs, diuretics (water pills), tranquilizers, or pain medications. Aspirin, ibuprofen and diet medications should have been discontinued seven days prior to surgery. Blood thinners should have been stopped at least seven days ago if approved by your physician.

Bring all your medications in the original bottles including eye-drops, inhalers, and any herbals or supplements. This will help us verify that we have all of your medication information correct for your hospital stay.

Personal Care/Hygiene
Shower (preferred) or bathe in the morning using hibiclens to lightly scrub the operative area. You may use the hibiclens on your entire body. Wash your hair with hibiclens if your surgery involves the head or neck. Do not apply lotion after your shower or bath.

Do not wear makeup or jewelry.

Documents
Bring a copy of your Advance Directive (if you have one) and you insurance card and photo ID.

Personal Belongings and Money
Do not bring valuables or money unless you have been asked to bring a deposit for your surgery.

Clothing
Bring any needed personal items and wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and good walking shoes.

Bring/wear appropriate clothing for your surgery:

• Arm/wrist/shoulder surgery: all shirts must button up the front.
• Hip and knee replacement: shorts, t-shirts, and athletic pants with the snaps on the side work very well. Bring three pairs of shorts and pants. You need slippers for sitting up in the chair and comfortable walking shoes to use during your physical therapy.
• Knee and ankle surgery: athletic pants with the snaps of the side work very well or loose fitting pants and shorts that can slip over a bulky dressing.
  

Eye Care
Wear eyeglasses instead of contact lenses and bring a container for your glasses.

Arrival Time
Arrive at the hospital two hours before your surgery and check in at the front desk.
If you are an inpatient, bring your CPAP machine if you use one for sleep apnea. It is very common for patients with sleep apnea to spend the first operative night at the hospital. We will want to monitor your breathing using your normal equipment.