Preparing for Surgery

This page helps you get ready for your operation. We use simple steps so you know what to do and what to bring.

Timeline • Checklists • Medicines & Fasting • Infection Prevention • Home Set-up • FAQs

Your Preparation Timeline

  • 4–6 weeks before: stop smoking if you can; cut down alcohol; keep moving daily; plan help at home.
  • 2 weeks before: health check and tests as told; ask about work, driving and time off.
  • 1 week before: review medicines (blood thinners, diabetes); confirm fasting rules; organise a lift home.
  • 2 days before: do skin washes if advised; do not shave the area.
  • Night before: follow fasting start time; pack your bag; shower and wear clean clothes.
  • Day of surgery: take only the medicines you were told; bring ID, scans, and your medicine list.

Checklists

What to Pack

  • Photo ID, Medicare/private fund details
  • List of medicines and allergies
  • Loose clothes, underwear, safe shoes
  • Phone & charger, glasses/hearing aids
  • Scans or reports (if you have them)

The Day Before & Day Of

  • Follow fasting start time exactly
  • Shower; put on clean clothes
  • No make-up, nail polish, or jewellery
  • Take only the meds you were told to take
  • Arrange a lift home and a support person

When to Call for Help (before surgery)

  • Fever, cough, chest infection, COVID-like symptoms
  • New wound, rash, or infection near the surgery area
  • Open ulcers on legs/feet (for leg/hip surgery)
  • If you are unwell or can’t stop certain meds as advised

Medicines & Fasting

  • Blood thinners: only stop if your team tells you, and exactly when they tell you.
  • Diabetes medicines: doses may change before fasting; follow your written plan.
  • Blood pressure/diuretics: some are skipped on the day — check your plan.
  • Herbal/supplements: many should stop 1–2 weeks before; ask your team.
  • Fasting: no food after the time given. Clear water may be allowed up to a set time — follow instructions.

Always follow the exact plan from your own doctor/anaesthetist. If unsure, ask.

Infection Prevention

  • Skin: do antiseptic washes if advised; do not shave the area.
  • Dental: see a dentist first if you have tooth or gum problems.
  • Stop smoking: even a short break lowers risk and helps healing.
  • Diabetes: good blood sugar control lowers infection risk.

Set Up Your Home

  • Clear walkways; remove loose mats and cords
  • Put daily items at waist height
  • Move a chair with arms near where you sit/sleep
  • Prepare simple meals for the first week
  • Ask family/friends to help with pets, kids, shopping

FAQs

What should I bring to hospital?
Photo ID, Medicare/private fund details, list of medicines and allergies, loose clothes and safe shoes, phone and charger, and any scans or reports.
When do I stop eating and drinking?
Follow the fasting start time from your team. Usually no food after that time. Clear water may be allowed up to a set time — follow your exact plan.
Should I take my medicines on the day?
Take only the medicines your team told you to take. Blood thinners, diabetes medicines, and some heart or fluid tablets may change — follow your written plan.
What if I get sick before surgery?
If you have fever, cough, chest infection, COVID-like symptoms, or a new skin infection, contact your team for advice.

Note: This page supports, but does not replace, advice from your own doctor.

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Brought to you by health professionals at Western Health, Melbourne