The days before a planned surgery are already stressful enough without wondering whether you've forgotten something. This checklist covers the essentials.
Before the Day of Surgery
- Fasting as instructed β follow the exact hours given for food and liquids; do not eat or drink outside those limits
- Reports and test results β gather all recent blood tests, scans, ECGs and previous medical records related to your condition
- Medicine list β a complete, written list of everything you take, including doses and timing, plus any medicines your team told you to pause
- Pre-anaesthesia checkup completed β make sure this appointment has happened and any advice from it has been followed
What to Bring on the Day
- ID proof and insurance card β needed for admission and billing formalities
- All gathered reports, scans and the medicine list
- A small bag with essentials if an overnight stay is expected
What to Wear and Remove
- Loose, comfortable clothing β easy to change in and out of
- Remove jewellery and nail polish beforehand β nail colour can interfere with monitoring equipment during surgery, and jewellery is a safety and loss risk
- Remove contact lenses; bring glasses instead if needed
- Leave valuables and large amounts of cash at home
Arrange Support
- A family member with you β someone available throughout the day, who can sign forms, receive updates, and take you home afterwards
- Arrange transport home in advance β you will not be able to drive yourself after anaesthesia or sedation
- If you have children or dependents at home, arrange their care for the day
If you are unsure whether something applies to you β a medicine, a supplement, or a symptom that's come up recently β mention it. It is always better to raise it and be told it doesn't matter than to leave it unsaid.
Pre-surgery preparation checklist infographic
Have a Surgery Date Scheduled?
Our team at Sri Ganga Hospital can answer any preparation questions before your surgery date.
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