Getting Ready For Orthopedic Spine Surgery
The Day before Surgery
A nurse will call you letting you know when to arrive and the time of your surgery. If your surgery is on Monday, expect a call the Friday before.
Eat a light supper. Do not eat solid foods after midnight. This includes gum and candy.
Do not drink alcohol after 8:00 pm the night before surgery.
Do not use tobacco after midnight.
Stop drinking clear liquids 4 hours before your scheduled surgery time.
Wash with an antibacterial soap (Hibiclens®) for 2 – 3 minutes. Wash again the next morning using the Hibiclens®.
Remove nail polish, artificial nails, make-up, jewelry and/or all piercings. Plan to leave any valuables at home.
If you take blood thinners, please check with your Cardiologist, Primary Care Doctor, or the Spine Clinic Staff when or if you should stop taking your blood thinning medicine.
The Morning of Surgery
With a sip of water, take only the medicines that your doctor has told you to take.
First Day Surgery Unit – Enter at the hospital entrance. Take the D elevators to the 3rd floor, turn left and follow the signs to the First Day Surgery Unit.
OutpatientSurgeryCenter– Enter at the clinic entrance. Once inside the lobby, it is the first door on your left.
Bring this packet with you to the hospital.
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If you have given blood in advance, be sure to let the staff know on the day of your surgery work-up. Also, talk with your doctor about taking an iron supplement before and after giving blood. |
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 05/06/2010
Copyright © 05/06/2010 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#7030
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