Pre-Surgery Checklist

Preparing for surgery: What to know before your procedure 

It’s normal to feel some uncertainty before surgery. At Banner Health, our surgeons and care team want you to have the safest, most comfortable experience possible. We’ll guide you every step of the way so you can feel prepared and supported from start to finish. 

This guide covers what to do before surgery, what to bring and what to leave at home so you can focus on your recovery. 

What to do before surgery 

To make your surgery as smooth and stress-free as possible, here are important steps to take: 

• Complete your pre-surgery consultation. If a nurse hasn’t called you within 48 hours of your surgery, call the hospital or surgery center where your procedure is scheduled. 
• Avoid tobacco, recreational drugs, or alcohol for at least 24 hours before your procedure. 
• Talk to your doctor about your medications and whether you should take them before surgery. 
• Arrange for childcare if you have children. 
• Have someone with you at the hospital or surgery center during your procedure, and to take you home afterward. 
• Plan for someone to stay with you for at least 24 hours after your surgery. 
• Check with your insurance provider if you have questions about your copayment or deductible. 
• Call your doctor if you have symptoms of a cold, flu, rash or any other illness or infection. 
• Do not eat or drink anything - including water, gum or throat lozenges - for at least eight hours before your procedure. 

What to bring to the hospital for surgery 

Being prepared can help ease anxiety. Consider bringing these items with you: 

• Your completed medication history form (if not already given to a nurse during your pre-surgery consultation) 
• Current reports from medical tests, such as blood work, X-rays or EKG results 
• A list of all medications you take, including dosages 
• Your health insurance card and a photo ID 
• Payment method (cash, check or credit card) if you have an insurance copayment or deductible 
• Glasses, dentures, hearing aids and their cases, if you use them 
• Robe and slippers, as well as toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, lotion) if you are staying overnight. The hospital can also provide gowns, robes and slippers if needed. 

If you have a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), let your care team know before surgery. Bring your device information card with you. 

Items to leave at home before surgery 

To prevent loss or damage, please leave valuables at home, including: 

• Wedding ring or other jewelry 
• Electronics such as cellphones, tablets and laptops 

If you need to make an insurance copayment, have the person who brings you to the hospital hold your purse or wallet while you are in surgery. 

We’re here to help you prepare 

We want to make your surgery experience as seamless and comfortable as possible. From preparation through recovery, the expert staff at Banner Health will guide you every step of the way. 

Have questions about your upcoming surgery? Contact your Banner Health care team or call your hospital or surgery center for more information.