Rapid Recovery Book

The Night Before Surgery

 Do NOT eat or drink anything after midnight, even water, unless otherwise instructed to do so.  NO chewing gum.  Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day until bedtime.  Take a good shower the night before or the morning of your surgery.  Do NOT shave your surgical leg.

Special Instructions

 You will be instructed by your physician or anesthesia provider about medications. If you normally take something for heart, blood pressure, or seizures, we ask that you take it with a small sip of water.  Do NOT take oral diabetic medication prior to surgery, but do take 1/2 of your normal morning insulin.  Makeup, dentures and contacts must be removed before your surgery.  Please leave jewelry, valuables and money at home.  Nail polish and acrylic nails may be left on.

Things You Need to Bring With You to the Hospital

 Copy of your advanced directives.  Driver’s license/insurance cards (for registration)  List of any new medications—including dosage, frequency and the time you take it.  Loose fitting casual clothes.  Your Joint Replacement Guide Book.