Day of Procedure

Being prepared for what to expect is essential  when approaching the day of your procedure.  The following are some general guidelines to provide you further education.  
 

What to Bring the Day of Procedure


You should bring items such as your inhaler if you have asthma, cane if you use one, and crutches if needed post-operatively.  Bring a list of medications you are taking; be sure you know the dose and time that you take them. Include prescriptions, over the counter medications, vitamins, herbals, recreational drugs, tobacco and alcohol.  The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) recommends that everyone stop herbal medicines at least two (2) to three (3) weeks before surgery to avoid the possibility of unwanted interactions and side effects.  This information will help your anesthesia provider to select the best medication for you to avoid any unwanted drug interactions. (Visit www.asahq.org for additional resources on herbals).  It is important that you also bring a list of any food or drug allergies you have.  You will be asked to give information on your health history as well as your family’s health.  This will include any problems with anesthesia or allergies.


At Home after Surgery

 
What do I need to do when I go home from the hospital? (1) Make sure you understand the instructions that your doctor or nurse will give you about taking care of your wound or any new medications you may need to take.  (2) Always clean your hands before and after caring for your wound.  (3) Make sure you know who to contact if you have questions or problems after you get home.  (4)  If you have any symptoms of infection, call your doctor immediately. Signs of infection are: Redness or pain at the surgery site, drainage at the surgery site, or fever