The Day of Surgery

At St. Luke's, we make every effort to help you feel prepared and comfortable on the day of your surgery. There are also several things we ask that you do to prepare for your surgery. By now you've spoken with your doctor, had your STAR appointment, pre-registered and filled out your medical history. Use the guidelines from Getting Ready for Surgery and the following checklist to help you prepare the day prior to surgery.

Medications

You need to follow your doctor or nurses' instructions for taking medications prior to surgery. You may need to stop taking some medications. Make sure that you understand their instructions.

Eating and drinking

It is extremely important that you follow instructions for eating and drinking. Your surgery or procedure could be canceled or postponed if you don't observe the stated restrictions.

  • Adults (age 13+): Nothing to eat or drink after midnight. You must refrain from smoking the day of your surgery.
  • Children: No solid foods, candy or gum after midnight. Children may have clear liquids up to four hours before surgery unless otherwise directed. Clear liquids include clear carbonated beverages, water and apple juice (not cider).
  • Infants: If your child is nursing, you can breastfeed or give breast milk until four hours before surgery. Infants who drink cow's milk, soy milk or formula may drink until six hours before surgery.

Note: It can be hard to explain to children why they can't eat or drink on the day of surgery. Be prepared with plenty of distractions for your child like books, toys and hugs. It is also helpful to keep food and drink out of sight.

What to wear

On the day of surgery, bathe yourself or your child. Dress in loose comfortable clothes. Remove make-up and nail polish and leave jewelry at home. Wear glasses rather than contacts and bring a glasses case.

What to pack

If you're arriving for an outpatient procedure, please keep bags to a minimum. You may want to bring a book or magazine. If you'll be staying in the hospital overnight, please bring your own sleepwear, slippers, toiletries and a change of clothing. For children, a special toy or blanket is suggested to help them feel more comfortable while in the hospital.

Note: Be sure to bring your insurance and Medicare cards and your 'Getting Ready for Surgery' folder with you

Coming to the hospital

Plan on arriving at the hospital 1.5 to 2 hours before your scheduled surgery time unless directed otherwise. You can park on Level 4 of the North Parking structure. Free valet parking is also available from 5:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Friday at the SurgiCare entrance.

If you have questions or would like more information, contact us 319/369-8392.