Guide to Preparing for Surgery

This guide is written to help aid in a quick and safe recovery.  The following information will help you to plan ahead for major or minor surgery.

First, give your body a head start

Gather Important Information:

• Make a list of all of your medical conditions.
• Make a list of all of your previous operations.
• Make a list of all medications you take on a regular basis; including vitamins, over the counter products, and herbal supplements.
• Inform your doctor of all medications you are taking PRIOR to surgery.  You may be asked to stop taking certain drugs/supplements, as they can interfere with recovery or cause serious complications during surgery.
• Make a note of your insurance information.  Include the name of the insurance company, the plan/group number, and the contact important of your insurance company.
• Make a note of any legal agreements that you have made concerning your health/recovery (i.e. living will, durable power of attorney, etc).
• Note your concerns to your doctor prior to surgery.

Leading up to surgery:

• Eat a well balanced diet.
• Please note that if you are over weight, your doctor may ask you to lose a specific amount of weight prior to surgery.
• Be sure to rest during the days before your surgery.
• Cut back on smoking or quit.  Smoking can delay healing and slow your recovery time.

Your homecoming:

• Arrange for someone to take care of daily tasks (i.e. house keeping, etc).
• Set up a recovery center - Items that you use most often should be placed within easy reach.
• Purchase any necessary equipment that may aid in your recovery.