If you’re getting ready to have surgery, you know that it can be a stressful time. To help you feel less anxious and better able to cope, take a look at the tips below. If you know people who may be having surgery soon, cut out this article for them to read so that they can feel better prepared.

Talk with your surgeon before the operation.
Find out what the procedure involves and how long it will take. Ask your surgeon to draw you a diagram or describe the steps. Ask as many questions as you need to, such as:

• What type of anesthesia will be used, and what side effects can I expect?
• How long will I be in the hospital?
• How much pain will I be in afterward, and how long it will last?
• When will I be able to get back to my normal lifestyle?

Make a to-do list.
It might include these items:

• Get presurgery blood tests and X-rays.
• Have a presurgical evaluation with the surgeon to review your medical history.
• Donate blood for yourself in case it’s needed during surgery.
• Purchase or rent medical equipment if needed.
• Buy food and beverages you’ll want during recovery.
• Fill drug prescriptions.
• Make arrangements to be away from work.
• Ask a trusted friend or neighbor to look after your house, take in the mail, and care for pets.
• Find someone who will drive you home from the hospital and, if possible, stay with you overnight.
• Arrange for help with meals, cleaning, or health care during your recovery.

Get ready to go.

• Pack a bag for the hospital. Include toiletries, robe, slippers, and clothing that’s easy to get on and off. Don’t forget your health insurance card, glasses, and hearing aid, if you have one. You may want to pack earplugs, a sleep mask, reading material, and a pen and notepad. Also bring phone numbers of people you may want to call, some cash, and any prescription medications you take.
• Leave your jewelry, credit cards, and other valuables at home.
• Bring any X-rays or lab reports your surgeon doesn’t already have.

Be a More Informed Patient
With information on hundreds of topics and illustrations to help clarify complex procedures, our Web site is a great resource to look at before you have surgery. Visit www.paramounthealthcare.com and click on “Better Health for Life,” “Library,” and then “Surgeries & Procedures.”