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Preparing for Surgery

At Banner Health, our expert surgical team is here to guide you every step of the way. We understand preparing for surgery can be overwhelming, and our goal is to make you feel comfortable, informed, and ready for your procedure.

How to prepare for surgery

Once you and your doctor decide that surgery is the best option, we’ll help you with the details to ensure you’re both physically and mentally prepared. Our medical team will provide personalized guidance and make the process as efficient as possible.

Mentally preparing for surgery

Feeling mentally prepared can make a big difference on surgery day. Staying calm is easier when you understand what to expect, so don’t hesitate to ask questions. Write down any questions as they come to you and discuss them with your surgeon or a member of your medical team. Bringing a friend or family member to appointments can also be helpful for support and to remember important information.

To reduce stress before surgery, consider listening to soothing music, practicing guided imagery, or using scent therapy. Talk to your medical team about what you can bring to the waiting area. Preparing mentally can help make the experience smoother and less stressful.

Physical preparation for surgery

Your surgeon may give you specific instructions to follow. These may include:

  • Fasting: Avoid eating or drinking for a certain period before your surgery, especially if you’ll be under general anesthesia.
  • Medication adjustments: You may need to adjust your current medications or stop taking certain anti-inflammatory drugs. Always follow your medical team’s instructions.
  • Lifestyle tips: Staying physically active and eating healthy foods can help your body recover faster. If you smoke or drink alcohol, you may need to stop drinking or smoking in the weeks leading up to surgery.

Wearing loose-fitting clothes on the day of surgery and having a responsible adult, like a family member or friend, to assist you afterward is important. They can help you get home safely and support your initial recovery.

Tests and assessments before surgery

Your doctor may order lab tests, like blood work or X-rays, to check if your body is ready for surgery. These tests help ensure it’s safe for you to undergo general anesthesia. A nurse will also review your health history, current medications, and any specific preparations you need to make.

This surgical assessment is a good time to ask questions and go over the pre-surgery checklist provided by your medical team. You’ll receive instructions about what to expect on surgery day, discharge plans and your recovery.

Registering for surgery

To make your experience smoother, we recommend pre-registering with Banner Health to save time. You’ll need to provide your contact and insurance details. If pre-registration isn’t possible, you can complete the paperwork on the day of your procedure. Contact the hospital or surgery center to confirm their requirements.

At Banner Health, we’re committed to providing world-class surgical care. Our experienced team is here to support you and ensure you have the best possible outcome.