Prior to arriving at the hospital, you may be required to follow special instructions given to you by your physician or healthcare provider. It is important that you follow these instructions and any pre-operation guidelines.

Eating and drinking

The evening before your surgery, you may eat a normal dinner. However, you cannot eat or drink anything (including water, gum or hard candy) after midnight. Not eating or drinking is essential to preventing vomiting during and after anesthesia. If you violate these guidelines, your surgery may be cancelled.

Medications

Bring a list of your current medications that includes the names, dosages and how often you take them. Talk to your physician about possible drug interactions.

You may be asked to stop taking aspirin or medications with aspirin. Many patients should stop taking aspirin two weeks before surgery. Patients may also have to stop taking anticoagulants or blood thinners such as Coumadin. Talk to your physician about these and other medications before and after your surgery.

Smoking

It is strongly recommended that smokers quit smoking as early as possible before surgery.

What to bring

We want you to be comfortable during your stay at Shands. The following tips should help you when packing for the hospital.

You should bring

• Personal identification
• Information given to you by your physician
• Insurance card(s)
• Signed pre-authorization treatment letters from your insurance company
• Copy of your medical records and diagnostic study results
• Proof of guardianship
• List of medications and dosages
• Small amount of cash
• Personal hygiene products and toiletries
• Change of clothing and sleep wear
• Eyeglasses, hearing aids or other assistance devices
• Books or other reading material
• Favorite doll or toy for pediatric patients

For the comfort and safety of all patients, Shands requests that you do not bring jewelry, valuables, electric appliances (hairdryer, shaver, heating pads, etc.), food, or medications.

If you will have an extended stay at Shands, consider bringing one photo of family or friends, books or reading materials, or comfortable pajamas.