Get Ready for Your Stay

Help yourself get the healthiest results possible from your outpatient procedure by being prepared. Follow the advice in this list to get ready for your trip to the hospital.

• Write down all the medicines you take (including dosages) and any questions for your doctor. No question is too small.
• Tell your medical team about any known allergies to medicine or food.
• Don’t smoke for at least 24 hours before your procedure. This is also a great first step to quit smoking for good. Even quitting the day before your procedure will help with healing.
• Understand what you can and cannot eat and drink the night before and the day of the procedure.
• Follow your doctor’s guidelines about wearing nail polish and deodorant, using lotions and perfumes, removing dental appliances (such as a bridge) and taking any medicine before your procedure.
• Arrange your insurance coverage. Outpatient coverage may be different than inpatient coverage, so make sure you get the necessary preauthorization to avoid stress and higher-than-expected bills.
• Schedule a ride to and from your procedure.
• Make your homecoming easier by freezing meals, making arrangements for pets and creating a comfortable space for your recovery.
• Call the surgeon’s office if you develop a fever or another illness to see if you need to reschedule.
• Rest, focus on eating healthier and limit drinking alcohol.

Make sure to follow your pre-procedure instructions on showering and bathing, and use any recommended soaps or disposable wipes.

Help yourself be ready for the day by arriving an hour or two early to park and complete any final paperwork. Read all forms carefully to understand what you’re signing and ask questions if you do not understand something.

Follow this sample list the day of your procedure:

• Do not wear any jewelry.
• Leave all your valuables, including money and credit cards, at home.
• Follow the eating, drinking and showering guidelines your doctor has given you.
• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing—shirts that zip or button are good options.
• Bring protective cases for glasses, contact lenses, dentures or hearing aids.
• Have your proof of insurance and photo ID.
• Bring a copy of your advance directive, if you have one.
• Know the directions to the hospital and where to park.