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.
This includes water, mints, and gum. The only exception to this rule is if you have been directed 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.

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.

Lightly scrub the operative area with hibiclens during your shower or bath.
Showering is preferred. Wash your hair with hibiclens if your surgery involves the head or neck. You may use the hibiclens over your entire body, but the most important area to cleanse is the operative area. If you have an allergy to hibiclens, you may substitute an antibacterial soap such as Dial. If the hibiclens is used and you develop signs of an allergy, discontinue use and please contact your surgeon. Hibiclens can be purchased at drug stores.

Do not apply lotion after your shower or bath.
Many lotions have chemicals that interfere with the killing action of the cleanser.

Put a pillow, towel, and blanket in the car.
The ride home will be much more comfortable if you can stay warm and have a pillow for sleeping. Ice bags are also prone to leaking, so it is a good idea to have a towel available. 

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