What can I do to prepare for day surgery?

• Carefully follow your doctor's instructions about fasting. This is important in order to avoid cancellation of your procedure.
• Do not chew gum or suck on candy.
• Be careful not to swallow water when brushing your teeth.
• Your stomach needs to be empty to prevent vomiting during and after surgery. If your stomach is not empty, your sugery will be cancelled and rescheduled for another date.
• Ask your doctor whether or not you should take your prescribed medication on the day of surgery. If your surgeon does instruct you to take your medications, they should be taken with as little water as possible.
• Ensure that any tests ordered by your doctor are done within 4 - 14 days of your surgery.
• Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home as you will not be able to drive for 24 hours.
• An adult will need to stay with you at home for 24 hours after your surgery.
• Arrive at the hospital 1 1/2 to 2 hours before your surgery time.  This will allow staff enough time to prepare you for your procedure.
• Have a bath or shower before coming to hospital. Clean skin helps prevent infection.
• Do not shave or clip hair from the area of your operation. Cuts and nicks can increase the risk of infection.
• Do not wear deodorant, powder or scented products. Family members/visitors should be aware that Western Health enforces a scent free environment for patients and staff.
• Remove all make up and nail polish on fingers and toes so that your natural color can be seen during surgery.
• Remove all jewellery and leave it at home. Jewellery can increase the risk of injury and infection during surgery.
• Leave all valuables, money and credit cards at home as Western Health does not assume responsibility for lost or stolen goods.
• Bring storage cases for contact lens, glasses and hearing aids.
• Call your doctor if you have a cold or illness within seven (7) days before your surgery. This helps avoid surgery cancellations.
• Make sure to bring your MCP card, Insurance card and a method of paying any related expenses with you when you register.

In the Operating Room

• You are usually brought in to the operating room on a stretcher.
• You will be greeted by a nurse who will ask you your name, what operation you are having done, as well as other questions.   Although these questions have been asked before, they are repeated for safety reasons. You will wait there until you are taken to the room where your surgery will be done.
• The operating room is cool and the lights are bright. Warm blankets are available.
• All operating room staff are dressed in blue or green uniforms, masks and caps. Machines will monitor your heart and breathing rate.

Downloads

Waiting For Surgery (brochure) - PDF