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Countdown to successful surgery: Your pre-op checklist
Scheduled for an outpatient or hospital surgery? These steps can help improve your odds of a healthy recovery.
So you’re going to have a surgery. The date is set, and now it’s all in your provider's hands, right? Not entirely. There’s a lot you can do to help make sure the surgery is a success and your recovery goes smoothly.
Whether your procedure is in a few weeks or a month, don’t just sit back and wait. Talk to your healthcare provider now about steps you can take in the weeks and days before the surgery.
Want to feel your best and help set yourself up for post-op success? Try these tips.
In the month before
Pay attention to chronic health conditions
Say you have diabetes and you’re scheduled for hip replacement surgery. A hip procedure has nothing to do with diabetes, right? Actually, your recovery and risk of complications can depend on how well your diabetes is managed. Other conditions that can affect surgery include:
- Anemia
- Depression
- High blood pressure
- Sleep apnea
- A history of blood clots
- Varicose veins
Ask your provider for advice on ways to help manage your chronic conditions. They may suggest:
- Medication changes
- Sticking more carefully to treatment plans
- Making small changes to your diet, exercise, or other lifestyle habits
Even a small change can make a big difference.
Stop smoking
Smoking slows healing. It can also raise the risk of breathing problems and anesthesia complications during surgery. Quitting smoking isn’t easy, but you don’t have to do it alone. Your health plan includes the Blue KC Care Management app, a digital health management app that offers programs to help you quit smoking for no extra cost.*
You can also talk to your provider about quitting. Ask whether over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription medications could help ease your cravings.
In the week before
Be mindful of medications
Your provider has likely gone over your medication list with you in detail. That’s important. Some medications may raise your chance of surgery complications. Or they might raise your bleeding risk during a surgery.
During that medication review, be sure to mention everything you take. That includes vitamins, supplements, and OTC medications like painkillers, sleep aids, and allergy medications. Your provider might give you step-by-step directions on exactly when to stop taking certain medications.
Prep for recovery
Knowing exactly what you can expect in the days after your surgery makes it easier to prepare for recovery. Ask your provider questions like:
- Will I be able to get up and down stairs at home?
- How long until I’m able to drive?
- Will I need a friend or family member to help me with anything after surgery?
- Would I benefit from a home health aide?
- What types of restrictions should I follow and for how long?
Avoid germs
There’s no great time to catch a cold or the flu. But if an illness hits you in the weeks before surgery, you might have to reschedule. An illness can weaken your immune system and make it harder for you to heal. To avoid that, double down on habits that can prevent illness:
- Stay away from crowds
- Wear a mask in public places
- Wash your hands often
- Don’t touch your face after touching public surfaces
If you do feel sick in the week before your surgery, call your provider.
Ask questions
Research shows that when people understand what’s about to happen, they’re less anxious before the event. They also have a stronger recovery afterward. Your healthcare provider has probably already described your surgery. If you have any lingering questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to speak up.
In the day and hours before
Pack light
You don’t need to bring a lot. Leave valuables at home and pack only what you truly need. Double-check that you have a photo ID and your insurance card handy. Here are some ideas for an overnight stay:
- Case for your glasses or contact lenses
- Phone charger
- Flat shoes with nonslip soles
- Lightweight robe
- Shorts or sweatpants
- T-shirt
- Clothes to wear when you go home
Also, make a list of phone numbers for close contacts. That way, whoever is with you on the day of your surgery can easily update your loved ones.
Watch the clock
Your provider might have given you specific details about when to stop taking medications. Or maybe you’ve been told when to stop eating or drinking before your surgery. Be mindful of that time or even set an alarm so you don’t forget.
Scrub up
The surgery team will use an antiseptic during your surgery to stop germs that can cause infection. Antiseptics work best on clean skin. Often, medical teams advise showering the night before and the morning of surgery. They may even suggest using an antibacterial soap. Do not use any lotions, creams, powders, or perfumes.
There’s no need to shave the area of your body where a procedure is happening. If shaving is needed, the surgery team will do it. If you’re unsure about any of this, ask your clinical care team.
Have a loved one come with you
It’s always a good idea to bring a trusted family member or friend to the surgical center or hospital. Let that person know ahead of time how they can help. You may want them to:
- Take notes on any care instructions your provider shares before and after the surgery
- Be there for emotional support and to ease your anxiety
- Drive you home afterward and help you get settled
If you’re not sure what kind of support you might need, remember that your clinical care team is there to help. You can also use your Blue KC Care Management app to find informational articles and resources.
Article sources:
Preparing for surgery overview: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons; American Society of Anesthesiologists
Medication and surgery: American College of Surgeons
Surgery questions: American College of Surgeons; Johns Hopkins Medicine
Study on surgery and anxiety: Perioperative Medicine
Showering before surgery: University of Michigan Health
