Before Surgery
- Choose the Right Surgeon and Hospital
- Examine the experience and qualifications of your surgeon.
- Opt for a hospital or surgical center with a strong safety record for your type of procedure.
- Understand the Procedure
- Ask about the purpose, benefits, risks, and alternatives.
- Get a second opinion if you have doubts.
- Review Your Medical History
- Share your full medical history with your care team, including allergies, medications, and chronic conditions.
- Manage Medications
- Ask your doctor which medications to stop or continue before surgery, especially blood thinners.
- Avoid Infections
- Shower using antiseptic soap if recommended.
- Follow pre-op instructions carefully.
Day of Surgery
- Verify Your Identity and Procedure
- Double-check your name, the procedure, and surgical site.
- Speak up if anything seems off.
- Mark the Place of the Surgery
- In some cases, the correct site will be marked to avoid wrong-site surgery.
- Discuss Anesthesia
- Meet the anesthesiologist and discuss any concerns, past reactions, or allergies.
After Surgery
- Prevent Infections
- Keep the wound clean and dry.
- Watch for signs of infection (redness, swelling, fever).
- Follow Recovery Instructions
- Follow all medication instructions.
- Attend all follow-up appointments.
- Watch for Complications
- Know the signs of blood clots, infection, or unusual pain—and call your doctor if anything seems wrong.
- Ask Questions
- Don’t hesitate to contact your care team if something doesn’t feel right or you’re unsure about instructions.
Extra Tips
- Bring a trusted friend or family member as an advocate.
- Maintain a written record of your allergies and medications.
- Use a notebook or app to track symptoms, instructions, and appointments.
