What to expect

Before surgery, your nurse will meet with you to answer any questions regarding your procedure.

You should learn the following information during this visit:

• Time of surgery
• Where your family will wait while you are in surgery
• How often and from whom they may hear of your progress
• Where you will be after surgery
• When and how often your family can visit after surgery
• What to do with your valuables (watch, jewelry, etc.)
• Which items you can have in intensive care
• What to do with your clothing, glasses, hearing aid, etc.
• Answers to any other questions you have

Day Before the Surgery

Answering Your Questions

• You will meet with the surgeon, anesthesiologist, and a nurse who will explain your condition and treatment
• You will learn what to expect during anesthesia, surgery, family visits and the days after your surgery

Skin Preparation

• The night before surgery, you will be asked to take a shower or bath with special soap that is provided

Medication for Sleep

• Your doctor will probably order medication to help you sleep and relax.

Food and Drink

• Do not eat or drink anything between midnight and the time of your procedure
• If your mouth gets too dry, you may rinse it with water but don't swallow

Breathing Exercises

• Your respiratory therapist will give you a device and show you how to perform a breathing exercise that will help you after surgery.
• Ask your family to keep this for you and to bring it to the recovery room after surgery

Day of Surgery

Preparations

If your procedure is scheduled for the morning hours, you will be awakened early enough to make preparations (take a shower, brush your teeth, etc.) for surgery. At that time you will be asked to remove the following:

Dentures, hairpins, nail polish, makeup, jewelry, glasses, contact lenses, underwear.

Since you will not be returning to the same room after surgery, please give valuables and other belongings to a designated family member.

Premedications

Next, you will be given one or two injections that will make you sleepy and make your mouth dry. Please stay in your bed after receiving these medications.

Visitors

Your family can wait in the waiting room on the second floor. A representative will be at the guest reception desk to answer any questions.

After Surgery

When You Awaken

When you begin to awaken from the anesthetic, you might first be aware of sounds from the medical equipment around you. You will find that a breathing tube has been placed in your mouth, making it difficult to speak or swallow. It will be removed as soon as possible and your nurse will be close by to assist you.

How You Can Help With Your Progress

You will receive pain medication to relieve your discomfort and help you relax, making the deep breathing exercises and walking easier.

Family Visits

Your family will be able to visit you in the recovery room usually about two hours after you get there.

After your family members visit, it is helpful if they let the nurse or guest relations know if they leave the area.