Preoperative instructions

Before the Surgery
Before your surgery your nurse will make you an appointment to see an Anestheologist at the Main Hospital, 1740 W. Taylor, 3rd floor, Room 3300. When you get off the elevator on the 3rd floor, follow the sign that says APEC.

ARE YOU TAKING ANY BLOOD THINNERS such as PLAVIX, COUMADIN WARFERRIN OR ASPIRIN?  If so call your nurse for instructions.
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Monday- Friday, before surgery, between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM call 312-996-3816 to get additional instructions. You may want to have pen and paper to write down these instructions.

The night before Surgery

Take a bath or shower and shampoo your hair. Do not use any gel, mousse, grease, leave-in conditioner or hair spray after washing your hair.

Practice deep breathing and coughing as you’ve been taught. See the attached picture instructions to help you practice.

DO NOT EAT OR DRINK AFTER 11:55 PM (including chewing gum) unless you have been instructed otherwise. You may brush your teeth, but do not swallow any water.

DO NOT SMOKE if you have not already given up smoking after scheduling your surgery. Your nurse will give you some tips on how to help stop smoking.

The day of Surgery

• Report to the Main Hospital, 1740 W. Taylor, 3rd floor, Room 3300, as you were instructed when you called 312-996-3816. When you get off the elevator on the 3rd floor follow the sign that says SURGICENTER.
• When you arrive in Surgicenter give your name to the administrative personnel and she/he will give you further instructions.
• Do not wear make-up, nail polish, perfume/cologne or jewelry except your wedding band.
• Do not bring valuable things or large amounts of money with you.

Parking

You may park in the parking structure located at the corner of Taylor and Wood or Taylor and Paulina. Bring the parking ticket with you to have it validated.

Recommendations

Line up a responsible adult to drive you home after surgery.

Wear comfortable clothing for your trip home.

If you are using special equipment such as a cane, a walker or a CPAP machine, bring it with you.

Inform the nurse at the SURGICENTER if you have dentures or wear a hearing aid.

NOTE: DO NOT TAKE ANY ASPIRIN, ALEVE, ADVIL, MOTRIN 0R IBUPROFEN 7-10 DAYS BEFORE THE SURGERY UNTIL AFTER SURGERY. You may take Tylenol for pain unless you are already told not to take it.

Copy enclosed in APEC packet.

download preoperative instructions