P>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 Preparatio>Your Preparation Timeline

p-block-list">
  • 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

    >Checklists-block-heading is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex" id="what-to-pack">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>Medicines & Fasting

    ist">
  • 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

      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

      Set Up Your Homei>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

    FAQsp-block-details-is-layout-flow"> 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.

    Surgery Explained
    Recovery & Rehab
    Browse Conditions

    Brought to you by health professionals at Western Health, Melbourne