Preparing for Your Surgery or Procedure

Expect a call from Pre-Procedure Screening (PPS). They will ask you many questions and may request the following:

  • A list of your medications including the name, dose, strength, and frequency. Be sure to include any over-the-counter medications as well as marijuana or recreational drugs. Please be accurate. This will help the anesthesia team ensure that you receive the safest medications to sedate you on the day of your surgery
  • A list of allergies to medications, environmental allergies (like latex or bees), and any allergic reactions/symptoms you have experienced
  • A brief health history, including prior surgeries

They may instruct you, if your surgeon did not, on:

  • Medications to take the day of surgery.
  • Labs and procedures to complete before your surgery.

The Day Before the Surgery

  • You will receive a call between 2:00 pm and 5:00 pm. Please be sure to check your answering machine. Please plan on the procedure/surgery to take all day, like a travel day at the airport. Procedures can have delayed start times or emergencies may arise that could potentially delay your surgery. We ask for your patience and understanding. Everyone’s safety is important to us.
  • Not feeling well? If you develop a fever, sore throat, cough, nausea/vomiting, or have diarrhea the day before surgery, please call your surgeon’s office. Your procedure may be rescheduled to ensure you are in an optimal state for surgery. This will help your recovery process as well.
  • No smoking. Please stop prior to your procedure. This will reduce your risk of infection. Please consult your surgeon for guidance. (See smoking cessation resources, page 6)
  • To avoid infection, please shower and wash your hair as instructed by your doctor. Your surgeon’s office may provide you with special medicated wipes/soap to use prior to your procedure. Be sure to use these as instructed.
  • DO NOT EAT AFTER MIDNIGHT UNLESS TOLD OTHERWISE! We need your stomach to be completely empty to avoid risk of aspiration. Small sips of water may be acceptable to take with your morning medications (ask your nurse), but absolutely nothing after that. This includes other liquids, gum or mints.
  • All valuables, including jewelry, should be taken off and left at home. This includes body piercings.

On the morning of surgery:

  • Brush your teeth.
  • Take your medication with a sip of water, as directed by the nurse.
  • Do not use lotion or powder on your skin. You may use deodorant if necessary.
Prepare for a Procedure at McLaren Greater Lansing
Surgery Guidelines at McLaren Port Huron