General Anesthesia Pre-Op

Patients need to know what to do before going under general anesthesia, but up to 40% arrive for surgery without following some portion of their pre-op instructions.

When preparing for surgery, there are changes to your normal routine that are important to keep in mind. The changes you make will depend on the type of surgery you are having, so be sure to follow your preparation instructions closely.

Several weeks prior to surgery, you may be instructed to stop smoking and avoid drinking alcohol. During the week before your surgery, you may need to stop taking medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or vitamins.

The night before your surgery, it’s important to not eat or drink anything after midnight. This means no breakfast before going to your appointment. It’s okay to brush your teeth, but don’t swallow anything. I

f your doctor has instructed you to take any medications before the surgery, use only a small sip of water.

Shower the night before or the morning of your procedure, and dress in comfortable clothing with flat shoes. Don’t wear any makeup and remove all your jewelry, including piercings. Try to wear glasses instead of contacts, or bring a case to put away your contacts beforehand.

Double-check your appointment time and make sure you know where to go. It can help to call your doctor’s office in advance to confirm your arrival time and location, as it might be somewhere new.

If you’re experiencing any changes in your health, like a cough or cold, you should let your doctor know ahead of time. Leave your valuables at home, but make sure to bring a photo ID, insurance card, paperwork from your doctor, a payment method, and a list of your medications.

Bring your CPAP machine if you use one, and something to read in the waiting room. Also, make sure to arrange for a ride home after your surgery.

By following your preparation instructions, you can help your healthcare team ensure a safe and successful procedure. Contact your doctor’s office if you have any questions regarding your preparation.