One Day Before Surgery

The physicians and staff of Nebraska Orthopaedic Hospital ask that each patient reviews the following items and contact the hospital with questions or concerns.

Do not smoke or drink alcohol for at least 24 hours before your surgery.

Smoking or drinking may increase the time that it takes for you to recover from anesthesia and may lengthen the healing process.

Pack any items that you will need during your hospital visit.

If you are staying at the hospital after your surgery, bring personal items such as a robe, slippers, pajamas, and toiletries like toothpaste, toothbrush, and hairbrush. Also remember additional clothing, as we will get you out of the "fashionable" hospital gown and back into your clothes as quickly as possible.

Do not eat or drink anything for eight hours before your surgery time.

Per your physician order and our anesthesia guidelines, do not eat or drink anything 8 hours before your arrival time. This includes water, mints, candy and gum. The only exception is if you have been directed by your physician to take some of your medications with a sip of water. If your mouth becomes very dry, you may swish water but you must spit it out.

Oral care (brushing teeth) is permitted but do not swallow any water.

Remove fingernail and toenail polish.

The medical staff monitors your breathing during your procedure and watches that your nail beds remain pink - which means oxygen is circulating well throughout your body.

Wear glasses instead of contacts and bring a container for your glasses.

You cannot wear contacts while you are under anesthesia due to the risk of rubbing your eyes once you awaken. If you require an inpatient stay, you may use your contacts after you have settled in your room.

Shower with a special soap the night before and morning of your surgery.

Lightly wash your entire body (from the neck down) with a special CHG soap such as Exidine or Hibiclens. Your surgeon may provide you with the soap, a special nylon sponge and bathing directions. If you have an allergy to CHG, you may substitute an antibacterial soap such as Dial. If the special soap is used and you develop signs of an allergy, discontinue use and contact your physician. The soap can be purchased at a drug store if needed. Hair can be washed with regular shampoo.

Do not apply lotion after your shower or bath.

Many lotions have chemicals that interfere with the killing action of the cleanser.

Do not shave around the operative area for 48 hours before surgery.

Small cuts in the skin could increase the risk of an infection.

Remember, if you have any questions about your stay, please feel free to call us at 402.637.0600.