Abdominal Surgery Pre-Operative Information

If you have questions about the surgical procedure that has been recommended for you, be sure to ask your surgeon. It is your right to be informed, and it is your responsibility to ask questions if there is something you do not understand. If a change in your physical condition occurs before surgery (such as a cold or fever), contact your doctor.

Before Surgery

Day of Surgery

On the day of surgery, report to the admitting area to register. A nurse will take your vital signs (blood pressure, pulse and temperature) and go through a list of questions to ensure that you are ready for surgery. If your doctor or anesthesiologist requires a chest x-ray or EKG and these were not done as a part of your preoperative examination, you may have them done at the hospital. Blood will be drawn and sent to the laboratory for current test results. You may also be asked to give a urine specimen. Your family will be directed to the surgical waiting room and you will go to a preop room. The anesthesiologist will talk to you about options for anesthesia. An IV line will be started.

In the Operating Room

After Surgery

Getting Ready For Surgery

To Prepare for Your Surgery

If you were prescribed a bowel prep, follow those instructions.
Do not eat any solid food after midnight the night before your surgery
You may drink clear liquids up to 4 hours prior to your surgery.
Do not eat or drink anything after 4 hours prior to your surgery.
Continue to take medication as prescribed, but with only a sip of water. Follow your doctors instruction on stopping blood thinning medications
If you smoke, try your best to quit smoking.
Do not wear make-up, especially eye make-up.
Do not bring large sums of money, jewelry or credit cards.
Do not wear artificial nails or nail polish. Your nails are monitored during surgery to identify oxygen and blood circulation.
Bring a list with you of all your medications and their dosages.
Bring your insurance identification cards.