If you live in Milwaukee and you’re getting ready for surgery, you’re likely nervous and a little worried about the procedure. It may come as a surprise to you to learn that one of the best ways to reduce your stress about the surgery is to properly prepare for it. The process of getting ready can ease you into the surgery, and some steps may even speed your recovery down the road.

Although every surgery will come with its own set of preparation instructions, there are a few general guidelines that you can follow.

A Week before Surgery

When you’re having non-emergency surgery, you’ll have time to thoroughly discuss the procedure with your surgeon. In fact, you’ll likely review your entire medical history with the doctor, giving you the chance to detail any allergies you have and allowing you to bring up concerns about the surgery. Depending on the type of surgery you’re having, you may also need to undergo physical exams ahead of time to ensure that you’re well enough to proceed with the operation. Plus, you’ll likely meet up with your anesthesiologist to discuss the medications he or she will use during the surgery.

Even as you’re heading to these appointments, filling out forms, and perhaps dealing with your insurance company, remember to arrange for a ride. If possible, find someone who can drive you to the hospital or surgery center on the day of the operation because you might not be entirely focused on the road as you get ready for your operation. More important than the ride there, however, is the ride home. Remember that you won’t be able to drive yourself home after surgery because you’re likely to have a cocktail of anesthetic drugs and painkillers coursing through your veins. Be sure that your driver is available for at least 24 hours after your surgery is expected to start because surgery and subsequent discharge from the medical facility might be delayed due to complications or other circumstances.

The Day before Surgery

The day before your procedure, be sure to eat well and relax, but keep in mind any instructions that your doctor gives you. For example, many surgeries are conducted in the morning, and thus patients are required not to eat or drink anything after midnight the day of the surgery. It may seem simple enough to fast for all of six or seven hours, most of which will be spent sleeping, but remember that you can’t drink any water (beyond a sip for taking prescriptions your doctor has previously approved for use before surgery) or even chew gum. You’ll also have to brush your teeth without swallowing any liquid.

The Day of Surgery

Rise and shine with a bath or shower because washing up before surgery can help reduce your chances of infection. Once you’re done, dress in comfortable clothing and wear slippers or other enclosed slip-on shoes. Be sure to remove all jewelry before you leave, including any piercings and wedding bands, and leave them at home.

Once you arrive at the hospital, remember to relax and simply follow the instructions the nursing staff, surgeon, and anesthesiologist give you.

Peg Smith is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Ms. Smith is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to health.

Peg Smith is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Ms. Smith is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to http://www.yellowpages.com/milwaukee-wi/laser-spine-institute health.

Author Bio: Peg Smith is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Ms. Smith is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to health.

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: health, surgery, medical, wellness, surgery preparation