Patient Guide to Having Surgery

Thank you for choosing Decatur Memorial Hospital.

Your surgeon has determinded the type of procedure you will have, the order it is performed and your arrival time. We will keep you informed of any changes or delays, as it is sometimes necessary for your surgeon to modify the order of their schedule. Occasionally, a patient's procedure takes longer than expected or an emergency occurs that may delay your surgical time. Also, a staff member may call to ask you to come in earlier than requested, if your surgeon's schedule is progressing earlier than anticipated. IT IS BEST TO PLAN ON STAYING MOST OF THE DAY AT THE HOSPITAL.

Pre-Admissision Clinic

Your surgeon may ask that you go to the Pre-Admission Clinic, located in the Outpatient Care Center, a few days prior to your procedure. If so, you will need to schedule an appointment by calling 217-876-5777. Nurses and Anesthesia staff will ask questions about your medical history. There may also be diagnostic tests such as lab work, xrays, and an EKG. The nurses will provide instructions related to your procedure.

Please bring all medications that you are currently taking in their original containers, or bring a list of medications complete with dosages.

If you have an Advanced Directive or Living Will, please bring a copy so that it can be included with your chart.

On the day of surgery please arrive at the Kirkland Lobby and register at the Same Day Surgery Desk.

Special Instructions

Your safety is our primary goal. Before your surgery, you can take important steps to aid in your comfort and recovery. Failure to follow instructions could result in your surgery being cancelled.

  • Notify your physician immediately of any changes in your current health such as:
    • Recent chest pain.
    • Any signs or symptoms of infection, cold, flu, fever, dental infection, or urinary tract infection.
    • Any type of skin disorders such as sunburn, rash, cuts, insect bites, open or draining areas.
  • Do not EAT, SMOKE, or CHEW anything after midnight the night before surgery (unless otherwise instructed). You may have clear liquids until 2-3 hours before surgery.
  • Avoid alcohol - you should not consume alcohol after 12 noon the day prior to surgery. If alcohol is detected in your blood work, more than likely your surgery will be cancelled or postponed. Alcohol can react with medications you are given, interfering with recovery and potentially causing serious complications.
  • Bring a list of all current medications and allergies.
  • To prevent injury, remove all jewelry, metal and body piercings.
  • It is best to leave all valuables at home, such as jewelry, credit cards, and large amounts of money.
  • If you wear dentures or partials they will need to be removed prior to surgery. A container will be provided.
  • If you wear glasses or contact lenses, they will need to be removed prior to surgery. Please bring a case for them or if able, leave them at home.
  • Wear loose comfortable clothing to allow for dressings, braces, etc.
  • Try to stop smoking at least two weeks before surgery. This will improve your lung function and circulation, which will help you heal more quickly. Decatur Memorial Hospital is a smoke free facility.
  • Notify your doctor if you are taking any of the following medications:
    • Blood thinners (aspirin, coumadin, warfain, plavix)
    • Heart or Blood Pressure medications
    • Insulin/Glucophage (Metformin)
    • Seizure medications
    • Daily medications
  • Take your morning medications with only a sip of water as order by your doctor or the anesthesiologist.
  • Arrange for a ride home if you are having Same Day Surgery. You are not allowed to drive for at least 24 hours.
  • Showering or bathing is important the morning of surgery (do not shave your surgical area prior to arrival) to help minimize infection and to remove make-up, lotions, perfumes, and powders, so that tapes and special monitoring equipment can be applied. Oral hygiene is very important but do not swallow the water.
  • Remove false nails and nail or toe polish to minimize infection and to make it easier to check your circulation.

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