Preparing well for surgery reduces complications, shortens recovery, and lowers stress. Most of the preparation is not complicated — it is a checklist.
Confirm the basics in writing
- The exact procedure being done
- The exact surgical site (left vs. right, level of the spine, joint)
- The name of the surgeon who will perform it
- The hospital or surgery center
- The date, time, and arrival window
Ask for a printed copy of the surgical plan.
Two weeks before
- Complete pre-operative testing (blood work, EKG, imaging as ordered)
- Review every medication and supplement with the surgical team — some must be stopped in advance
- If you smoke, ask about a cessation plan — even short-term quitting improves outcomes
- Arrange a driver and a caregiver for the first 24–72 hours
- Prepare the home: clear walkways, set up a recovery area, stock easy meals
The night before
- Follow fasting instructions exactly — food or drink after the cutoff can cancel the surgery
- Shower with any special soap you were given
- Sleep as much as you can
- Charge your phone; pack ID, insurance card, medication list, glasses, and a phone charger
The day of
- Bring a family member or advocate
- Confirm allergies out loud with every clinician
- Ask the surgeon to mark the surgical site with you awake
- Ask about pain management before and after the procedure
- Ask what warning signs mean call the office vs. go to the ER
After surgery
- Take pain medication as prescribed — pain that stays ahead of the medication is harder to control
- Walk as soon as it is safe to prevent blood clots
- Watch for infection: fever, redness, warmth, drainage, worsening pain
- Attend every follow-up appointment
- Do not restart medications, supplements, or activities without clearance
Key takeaways
- Confirm procedure, site, and surgeon in writing
- Follow fasting rules exactly
- Have a driver and a caregiver ready
- Know the warning signs after surgery
Source: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ).