Preparing for Your Stay

Before checking in for a scheduled hospital stay, adequate preparation ensures you will be as comfortable as possible, not to mention that your recovery at home will go smoothly, too.

We understand you may feel a little overwhelmed or stressed about leaving the comforts of home to go to the hospital, but by following our preparation advice, you can save your energy to feel better quickly.

Hospital Prep FAQ

What Should I Wear the Day of Surgery?

We recommend that you wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing to the hospital. For maximum post-operative comfort, you may want to also bring pajamas, a robe, and slippers to wear on the ride home.

How Do I Pre-Register for Surgery?

Pre-registering for surgery should ensure that all tests are completed prior to your scheduled procedure. The day before surgery, check with your doctor that results have been received and confirm your appointment. Notify your doctor if there are any changes to your health status (such as a fever) in the days before your surgery.

What If I Need to Cancel My Surgery?

If you need to cancel your scheduled procedure, please contact your doctor's office at your earliest convenience. If you get a fever, cold or rash prior to surgery, your surgeon needs to be made aware of this. Your surgery may need to be postponed if you are ill.

See Appointments and Pre-Registration for more information.

The Day of Surgery

Before you leave home for the hospital:

Remove all body piercings.

Shower or bathe (use any hospital-recommended special cleansing soaps as directed). Do not apply lotion, oil, or powder.

Do not shave the area of the body where you will have surgery as this will be done at the hospital.

Remove contact lenses, hair ties, and all makeup. If you use them, wear eyeglasses to the hospital.

Wear comfortable, loose clothing.

Leave any valuables at home, including jewelry and wedding rings.

Bring eye drops or inhalers if needed.

Take your medications as instructed. Most heart, lung, and blood pressure medications are continued until your surgery, but ask if you are unsure.

Advise the medical staff if you have any prosthetic devices, including dentures.

To learn more about preparing to leave the hospital, see the inpatient guide below:

Inpatient Guide English (pdf)

Inpatient Guide Spanish (pdf)