On the day before your surgery, you’ll need to prepare a few more things to bring to the hospital with you. You’ll also want to review some of the instructions you’ve already received to make sure you’ve got everything ready. And you’ll have a few restrictions on eating and drinking.
When to stop eating and drinking
As part of your pre-operative appointments you received a packet with anesthesia instructions and the details of the limitations on eating and drinking before surgery. Do a complete review of that packet to make sure you understand everything you need to know.
The general rule is that you should not eat or drink after midnight the night before your surgery. There are some special exceptions for clear liquids. You’ll find that information in your packet.
What to bring to the hospital
Bring a current list of the medications you take. You will be given all necessary medications during your stay, but it’s good to have a list of all your medications with you to help your care team make sure you’re getting what you need.
If you have sleep apnea and you use a CPAP machine, bring your CPAP machine with you to the hospital to wear during your overnight stay.
Also review the pre-operative checklist and the instructions for one week before your procedure to make sure you’ve packed everything you need.
When to schedule your ride home from the hospital
Remember that you will not be allowed to drive yourself home. Be sure you have arranged to have someone drive you home.
Plan on having your driver ready to take you home around noon the day after surgery. Your catheter will be removed in the morning, and you won’t be discharged from the hospital until after you’re able to urinate. The amount of time that takes can vary from patient to patient.
Contact us
Contact us by phone at 1-319-353-8939 if you have any questions.