Getting ready for surgery can be nerve racking. So many things to remember and never enough time! To make things a little easier our members have put together a list based on their experience.

Things to do

Make a list of questions for Doctor and Anesthesiologist
Read Patients Bill of Rights
Get any Post-Op Medications Before Surgery (prescriptions, Tylenol, cold meds, etc., please verify all of these with your doctor!!)
Write a note or letter to next of kin. (Incase something happens)
Clean House
Do Laundry
Prepare and Freeze Meals
Do all the shopping for Next Three Weeks
Set Up Schedule for People to Help and Visit
Move Anything You Might Need To Waist Level
Get Box or Basket to Put Stuff You Might Need At Home to keep with you (i.e.: Meds, Book, Lotion, Lip Balm, Etc)
Get Hair Cut
Get Pedicure
Shave Legs
Arrange for someone to care for childern
Arrange for someone to walk dog

Things to Get at the Store

2 nightgowns (knee length)
Robe
Slippers (low healed)
Granny Panties (large loose underwear)
New Socks
Pads (they are cheaper then hospital pads)
Heating Pad
Ice Pack
Extra Pillows
Pet Food
Jell-O
Rice
Cream of Wheat
Fresh Fruit
Raisin Bran
Gas-X or equivalent
Lip balm
Books or crossword puzzles
Thank You Notes (To write too people that send flowers etc.)
Stamps
Books
CDs

Things to Take to the Hospital

Pads
Loose Night Gowns Robe Slippers Socks Granny Panties
Loose Outfit (to wear home)
Brush/comb
Toothpaste/brush
Make-up
Books
Pillow For Ride Home. Put it between your lap and seat belt.
Prescription Medication ( most doctors and hospital will allow you to bring your own prescription medication to the hospital with you. Make sure this is noted on your chart)
Legal Papers such as Medical Directives (this should also be in your chart) Living Will, or DNR.
The name and number of the Patient Advocate or Patient Services at the hospital.

If you have suggestions to add to this list please email me Tessa@hystercity.com