Preparing for Surgery

Surgical

How to Prepare and What to Expect

Learn what to expect the day of your surgery. Follow the guidelines carefully, unless your surgeon has directed you otherwise.

Pre-Admission Testing

Please arrange to have your pre-operative testing done by your primary care doctor. If you do not have a primary care doctor, your surgeon can refer you to a West Suburban doctor. Your surgeon will also provide you an order for the diagnostic tests required for your procedure. Please note: If testing is not completed before the day of your procedure, your surgery may be rescheduled.

What to Bring the Day of Your Surgery

  • A written list of the medications you take, including the dosages and frequency
  • Photo ID (driver’s license or state ID)
  • Insurance card and information
  • Names and phone numbers of family or friends to contact in case of an emergency
  • Comfortable clothes to wear home
  • Copy of advance directives (if you have any)
  • A responsible adult to take you home for all outpatient same-day procedures. You won’t be able to drive the day of your procedure.

What to Leave at Home

All jewelry, cell phones, purse, money, or other valuables. When in doubt, ask your nurse.

Pre-Operative Instructions

  • Don’t eat or drink after midnight the evening before your procedure (this includes gum, candy, and mints). You may brush your teeth and rinse your mouth the morning of surgery as long as you don’t swallow. If you eat/drink anything after midnight, your surgery may be delayed, postponed or rescheduled.
  • Don’t smoke or drink alcohol after midnight before your surgery.
  • Several weeks before surgery, ask your surgeon if you should stop taking any of your medications.

Cancellations

If you need to cancel your surgery, call your doctor’s office first. If you’re feeling ill the morning of the surgery, please notify the hospital so we can determine if your procedure should be rescheduled.

Medical staff checking monitor

Need Help?

Request an appointment with one of our experienced surgeons.