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Your surgeon will schedule your procedure. If for any reason you must postpone or cancel it, please notify your surgeon and the hospital (861-3000) as soon as possible.

You will be called by the Pre-op Nurse prior to surgery. She or he will review your health history, discuss the pre-op instructions which include what medicines to take, food and drink, and any special needs you may have. Feel free to ask questions at this time. You will be sent a copy of these written instructions if time permits.

Some patients may be asked to come to the hospital for tests in advance of the surgery or on the morning of the surgery. If you need to have an EKG or other tests the day of your procedure, please arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time in day surgery.

The afternoon prior to surgery, the day surgery nurse will call you and confirm your time of arrival the following day. Feel free to ask questions at this time also. Or you may call at any time and talk to a nurse at 861-3255.

The anesthesiologist will talk with you the morning of surgery. You should ask any questions you may have about anesthesia then. Or you may call the anesthesia department directly at 861-3250 if you have unanswered questions. Some types of surgerymay require a pre-op visit with the anesthesiologist. If your doctor requests that you meet with the anesthesiologist before the day of surgery, the pre-op nurse will set up that appointment. The nurse may be reached at 861-3253.

A pre-operative visit is required on all total joint replacement procedures. An anesthesiologist, Occupational/Physical Therapist, Nursing Unit Representative and Social Services representative will meet with you for educational and assessment purposes. This will assist you in your post-operative course.

Tell your surgeon if you are taking the following medications:
.....Diuretics (fluid pills) for high blood pressure
.....Heart medication
.....Aspirin, Coumadin, Heparin or other blood-thinning medications
.....Diabetes medication
.....Antacids
.....Diet medications
.....Herbal or food supplements

It is very important for you to observe all of these instructions to ensure an uneventful surgery and a quick recovery.

REMEMBER: No solid food after midnight. You may have up to 8 ounces (one glass) of clear liquid until two hours before surgery.