What to Expect
Day of Surgery
Please arrive on time or a little early. Generally, someone must accompany you for your safety. You will be asked to change out of your clothing. Usually, an IV (intravenous line) will be started in a vein in your arm to give you medications to initially relax you before you are put to sleep. The anesthesiologist will speak with you before providing any medications. This is a good time to ask all of your questions about anesthesia. Once you have your first dose of medication, either in the preoperative area or in the operating room, you may not remember anything until you awaken in the recovery area.
Tips:
- Follow eating/drinking instructions. Many try to sneak a morning cup of coffee. This can be dangerous. Your surgery will be delayed or canceled.
- Take a shower the morning of surgery unless instructed not to.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothes that remove and fold easily.
- Leave valuables at home.
- Be prepared to wait longer than expected if the operation before yours takes longer. Be prepared to start sooner than expected if there is a cancellation or the schedule changes.
While you wait, try to relax and think about a successful operation followed by a speedy recovery.
