Preparing for Surgery Checklist

14 items · Health · Medium difficulty · 1 hour

Essential steps to prepare for surgery, from tests to recovery planning.

• Confirm surgery date, time, and location

  Call your surgeon or hospital to verify details and arrival time.

• Review pre-op instructions from surgeon

  Check portal, emails, or paperwork for fasting, arrival, and testing notes.

• Complete required pre-op tests and imaging

  Schedule or confirm bloodwork, ECG, X-rays, or COVID tests as ordered.

• Create a written medication and allergy list

  Include prescription, OTC drugs, supplements, doses, timings, and allergies.

• Stop or adjust medications as instructed

  Follow surgeon/anesthesiologist guidance, especially for blood thinners and supplements.

• Arrange transportation to and from the hospital

  Book a ride and confirm someone can escort you home after anesthesia.

• Organize post-op care and home support

  Plan for a caregiver, meals, pet care, and any medical equipment needed at home.

• Pack hospital bag

  Pack essentials the day before to avoid last-minute stress.

• Pack ID and insurance cards

  Include photo ID, insurance cards, and any hospital paperwork.

• Pack current medications and written med list

  Bring only what staff allow; include inhalers or emergency meds and your med list.

• Pack comfort items and phone essentials

  Include loose clothing, charger, glasses, and a short list of emergency contacts.

• Fast as instructed before surgery

  Follow NPO times: no solids; clear liquids allowed until the cutoff your team gave.

• Follow hygiene instructions (shower, no lotions)

  Use antibacterial soap if advised; avoid perfumes, makeup, and nail polish.

• Prepare your home for recovery

  Stock prescriptions, easy meals, water, and set up a comfortable rest area within reach.

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