Preparing for Surgery
What Should I Do the Day Before Surgery?
- Do not eat any solid food after midnight on the night before surgery.
- Have a light supper (no fried or fatty foods) on the night before surgery.
- Do not drink alcohol 24 hours before surgery.
- You can have water up to 8 hours before the scheduled time of surgery.
- Take off all piercings and jewelry (including wedding rings).
- Remove nail polish.
What Should I Bring to the Hospital?
Limit the personal things you bring to the hospital. Only bring the most important items such as:
Medical Items:
- A copy of your Health Care Directives
- Any test results or forms you were told to bring.
- A list of your medications, the doses, and the times you take them.
- Insurance details.
Toiletry Items:
- Comb and brush.
- Razor and shaving cream (electric shaver preferred).
- Body wash or soap (if you want your own brand).
- Toothpaste and toothbrush.
- Denture cleanser and denture cup.
- Deodorant
Clothing:
You will be getting dressed in your own clothes when you are discharged
- Loose-fitting clothing, such as sweats.
- Loose non-slip footwear (such as Velcro tennis shoes).
- Robe
- Underwear
- Cases for glasses, hearing aids, dentures or contacts.
DO NOT bring valuables to the hospital with you. You may bring your cell phone.