Preparation can support a successful surgery
The prospect of surgery can feel daunting whether you are undergoing a simple same-day procedure or facing a complex surgery with an overnight hospital stay. Knowing what to expect in the days before surgery can help ease your mind and support a positive outcome.
Pre-surgical testing
Before your surgery, you may need to complete one or more preoperative medical tests, such as blood work, urinalysis, or imaging tests like X-rays. The type of testing needed varies according to each patient and surgery.
Pre-surgical testing can help your surgical team:
- Identify and treat any health concerns before your procedure
- Understand your overall health and ensure you are physically ready for surgery
- Inform the development of your treatment plan
Pre-surgical appointments
In the days before your procedure, a nurse or another member of your surgical team will schedule an appointment with you to help you prepare for surgery. During this appointment, which may be in person or over the phone, we will:
- Review your medical history
- Discuss any medications (prescription and over-the-counter) or supplements you are currently taking; please have a list of medications and dosages ready
- Provide instructions about surgery arrival time, diet and infection prevention
- Explain any pre-surgical testing you may need
- Recommend any post-surgery items that will aid your recovery, such as crutches or canes, and discuss post-surgery therapy as needed
- Answer your questions about the procedure, recovery or pain management
If possible, it’s a good idea to have a friend or family member accompany you to your pre-surgical appointment to help you take notes and ask questions. Visit the American College of Surgeons website for a list of 10 questions to ask your surgical team before your operation.
Infection risk reduction
Your surgical team will take every precaution to protect you from post-surgery infections, which can affect the skin as well as other parts of the body. That’s why it’s important to follow your surgical team’s instructions for skin care, cleansing and tobacco use.
Cleanse the skin. There are several kinds of bacteria that naturally live on our skin. Most of the time, these bacteria do not cause harm and can actually help protect the skin. However, they are also a common cause of infection after surgery. The antiseptic chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) helps reduce the number of bacteria on your skin and the risk of postoperative infections. It can also help you to heal quicker. Typically, you will receive CHG wipes to use the night before your procedure.
Avoid shaving or waxing the surgical site. Waxing or shaving with a traditional razor can irritate your skin, increasing the chances of bacterial infection. Please do not remove hair on or near the surgical site for two days prior to surgery. Report any rashes or skin issues on or near the surgical site to your care team.
Avoid smoking. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that patients who smoke get more postoperative infections than those who don’t. Among other negative effects on the body, smoking decreases the amount of oxygen in the blood, making it harder for wounds to heal. At a minimum, stop smoking 18 hours before your surgery. To make this easier for you, your doctor may be able to assist you in obtaining a nicotine patch.
What’s next?
Learn what you can do at home to ensure you are ready for your operation as well as what happens after you check in to the hospital or outpatient surgical facility.