Packing for Your Hospital Stay
What to Bring
� A list of your medications and your preferred pharmacy information
� Your driver ’ s license and insurance card
� Copy of Living Will and / or Health Care Power of Attorney
� Credit card or money for insurance co-payment
� Glasses , contacts , hearing aids , dentures , and cases
� CPAP or BiPAP � Walker or brace
� Pair of non-skid shoes that are not tight — you may have swelling .
� One set of clothes — loose-fitting shirt and pants or shorts . If you wish to wear a robe , bring one that opens along the entire front and is no longer than calf length .
What Not to Bring
Please leave all valuables such as jewelry , keys , and electronic devices at home . After registering for your surgery , plan to give your purse / wallet , checkbook , credit cards , cell phone , and any other valuables to your support person to be responsible for these items . It is recommended that these items are taken home .
Leave your medications at home unless you have been instructed to bring them to the hospital .
Getting Ready for Surgery
A Few Days Before Surgery
You will receive multiple phone calls in the days leading up to your surgery . These calls are critical in helping to prepare for your surgery . A hospital staff member will contact you to verify information , including instructions on which medications you should take the morning of surgery .
� Follow all instructions given by your doctor .
� Call your doctor right away if there are any changes to your health before your surgery , including a cold or other infections .
The Day Before Surgery
Many details are involved in determining your final surgery time . Depending on where your surgery will be performed , you will be notified of your arrival and surgery times either at your pre-admission testing appointment or by phone . You may receive a call with additional information or time changes up to the evening before your surgery .
Do not smoke , eat , drink , chew gum , or eat mints or candy after midnight the night before surgery until you are allowed to have fluids after surgery .
Shower using a CHG solution the night before surgery . Follow the directions on the next page unless your surgeon gives you other instructions .
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