What to expect on the day of surgery
It's understandable to be a little anxious on the day of surgery. It's important to report any unusual or ill feelings you're experiencing to your nurse. Remind them of any special needs, such as bladder or bowel control issues, or use of any assistive devices such as hearing aids or dentures. If employees don't introduce themselves, ask them to please do so. You have a right to know who's involved in your care.
You'll need to have a driver on the day of your surgery for the trip home, in addition to making arrangments for someone to stay with you after your surgery. Transportation and personal arrangements must be made in advance and your driver's name, contact number and location should be provided to the admitting nurse.
You must not eat or drink as per your instructions. If you have been instructed to take medications the day of your surgery, they may be taken with a small sip of water. You may brush your teeth and spit out any rinse water. Please leave all valuables at home. Come bathed or showered, and be certain to remove all body and piercing jewelry. If you use an inhaler, please bring that with you. Your anesthesia care provider will explain its use, if necessary.
Printed with permission from the American Society of Perianesthesia.
