What to Know Before Surgery

The following information will help you understand what to expect before surgery to insure your visit is as pleasant as possible.

Pre-Anesthesia Interview

A registered nurse from the Pre-Admission Clinic will call you prior to your scheduled surgery to obtain your medical, surgical and medication history. If you need pre-surgical lab tests or are required to meet with the anesthesiologist, the registered nurse will schedule these appointments at this time. Please be prepared to provide the following information during this phone call:

• Medical history, including any previous surgeries
• List of your medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements with their dosages
• Names and phone numbers of doctors managing your care

If you have had tests performed in the last six months, please ask your physician to fax the results or reports to the Pre-Admission Clinic at 816-943-4865.

Pre-Operative Instructions for Medications

Stop taking these medications five to seven days before surgery:

Advil, Ibuprofen, Aleve, Mortin, Excedrin, Celebrex, Bextra, Mobic, Vitamin E, Omega-3 (fish oil), Garlic, Ginger, Flax Seed, Ginkgo Biloba, Ginseng, Glucosamine, Green Tea, weight loss or diet medications.

You may use Tylenol for pain.

You will need to discontinue taking medications inhibiting coagulation, including aspirin, Plavix and Coumadin 1 week before surgery if possible. Lovenox should be discontinued the day prior to surgery. If you have been prescribed blood thinner as list above – please check with your medical doctor prior to discontinuing the medication.

Please check with your physician if you are taking any steroids, methotrexate or other medications for rheumatoid arthritis.

Day Before Surgery

• Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your surgery unless otherwise directed by your doctor (you may brush your teeth).
• Do not smoke 24 to 48 hours before your surgery

Day of Surgery

• Shower with a clean wash cloth, using antiseptic soap and dry off with a clean towel.
• Do not wear makeup or contact lenses, or use powders, lotions or deoderants after showering
• Remove all jewelry including body piercings and wedding rings
• Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that are loose-fitting and easy to get into.
• Arrive at St. Joseph’s Registration at your designated time. Registration is located on the right after the Main Entrance.
• If you will be staying the night, bring an overnight bag with any personal items and leave it in your car until your surgery is over and you are settled in your room.