Section 1: The Night Before
Nothing to eat or drink after midnight (or the specific time your team gives you — follow their instructions exactly). This fasting requirement prevents aspiration of stomach contents during anesthesia, which is a serious complication. Even a small sip of water can delay surgery.
CHECKLIST
What to do the night before
- Shower with the antibacterial wash (chlorhexidine/Hibiclens) your team provides or prescribes — this reduces bacteria on your skin and lowers infection risk
- Remove nail polish (fingernails and toenails) — the pulse oximeter clips to your finger and reads through the nail
- Remove jewelry, piercings, and contact lenses
- Take your approved medications with a small sip of water as instructed
- Set alarms — you will likely have a very early report time (often 5–6 am)
- Leave valuables at home
PACKING
Pack a bag for the hospital
- Insurance cards and ID
- A list of all current medications with doses
- Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing for going home
- Toiletries (toothbrush, lip balm, glasses if needed)
- Phone and charger
- A small notebook for writing down questions and information
- Headphones and entertainment for the recovery days
- A small pillow for the car ride home (to splint against the seatbelt)