Preparing for Surgery

• Once you and your specialist decide that surgery is the best option for you, you will need to learn what to expect from the surgery and how to plan for after surgery care.
• Understanding the process and your role will help you recover more quickly and have fewer problems.

Preparing for Day Surgery

• Fast for six hours before your surgery time.
• Have someone available to take you home as you will not be allowed to leave hospital unaccompanied and you will not be able to drive for at least 24 hours after surgery because of the anaesthetic.
• Do not drink or eat anything on the trip home as nausea and vomiting can be caused by the combination of anaesthetic and car motion.
• Start with a light meal once hungry and try and avoid any greasy food for the first 24 hour after surgery.
• You will receive after surgery care documentation.
• If you have any concerns or problems after surgery please contact your doctor.
• If you have an urgent problem out of office hours, please contact the On Call Service
  5896 6568 52.

Preparing for Overnight Surgery

• You will need to fast for a minimum of 6 hours prior to your admission.
• You will need to cease blood thinning medication 5-10 days prior to your surgery. Discuss your medication with your Surgeon to see which need to be ceased prior to surgery.
• We recommend attending a pre-admission clinic and a pre-operative review with your Anaesthetist.
• Advise your Surgeon if you are due to have any dental work or other medical procedures performed. It is recommended these be done at least 4 weeks prior to your surgery.

Discharge Planning

• Discuss with your surgeon how many days you are likely to be in hospital.
• Arrange for someone to pick you up after surgery.
• Arrange for someone to help out with everyday tasks such as cooking, shopping, laundry.
• Make sure you have a stable chair with appropriate support for the limb surgery was performed on.
• Put all items that you use often within easy reach before surgery so you won’t have to reach or move to obtain them.