Patient Resources

Preparing for your first appointment

Here, you will find resources and information that can help you prepare before you visit the doctor for the first time and get ready for surgery.

At your first appointment, we will be collecting a lot of information from you. You can plan ahead to make the process go smoothly. Plan to arrive between 15 and 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment time in case there are forms to fill out. If you have to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please call your doctor’s office at least 24 hours in advance.

Getting ready for a procedure or surgery

It can be useful to be prepared before you have your procedure or surgery. Take some time to read these instructions. If possible, share them with your loved one or caregiver so that he or she also knows about what to expect.

When your procedure is scheduled

  • Make arrangements for a family member or other caregiver to help you immediately afterwards
  • Read up on the procedure and ask your doctor any questions you have
  • Prepare ahead of time for your return home. It will make it easier for you later
  • You can find many useful resources and other information on this website
  • Current medicines

Your doctor will tell you whether to continue taking your medicine. Listen to his or her instructions carefully. Ask questions if you do not understand anything. It may help to write down the instructions.

What to bring with you to the hospital

  • Health insurance cards or documentation that includes the insurance company name and policy number, and a picture ID
  • An up-to-date list of all the medicines you take, including dosages and when you take them. This includes vitamins, herbal supplements, prescription, and OTC medicines
  • Bring 1 set of lightweight, loose-fitting, comfortable clothes such as pajamas, lightweight robe, sweatpants, shorts, and tee shirt for therapy.
  • Bring comfortable, low-heeled shoes with closed heels and toes. Non-skid or rubber-soled shoes are preferred. Walking or tennis shoes are a good choice.
  • Basic toiletry items are available. If you prefer your own, you can bring them. It can be a good idea to bring lip balm.
  • Bringing a book, magazine, iPad, or hobby item can help you relax.

DO NOT BRING

  • Please leave valuables at home. This includes jewelry, large sums of money, computers, etc.
  • Please do not bring your own medications. Make sure to bring a list of what you are taking.

TIP: A healthcare professional will help you with dressing and teach you how to manage on the day you are discharged

The night before surgery

  • Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your surgery. This includes gum, hard candy, water, soda, coffee, tea, beer, wine, or other alcoholic beverages
  • You may brush your teeth the night before and morning of surgery
  • If you take regular medicine, take the ones that your doctor has told you to take