CHECKLIST
Preparing for your operation: a checklist.
For planned orthopaedic surgery. Read online or download a printable copy.
Good preparation helps your operation go smoothly and supports a quicker recovery. Use this checklist in the weeks before surgery. Always follow the specific instructions from your hospital’s pre-operative assessment team.
In the weeks before surgery
- Attend your pre-operative assessment, and take a list of all your medicines and any allergies.
- Ask which medicines to stop or change before surgery, for example blood thinners, diabetes medicines, some anti-inflammatories, and hormone treatments.
- Stop smoking, or cut down as much as you can. This reduces the risk of wound and chest problems.
- Keep alcohol within recommended limits.
- Keep active and practise the exercises you have been given. Stronger muscles help recovery.
- Have any dental problems treated before surgery.
- Look after the skin on the leg. Avoid cuts, scratches, insect bites and shaving the area.
Getting your home ready
- Remove trip hazards such as loose rugs and trailing cables, and make sure walkways are well lit.
- Have a firm chair with arms at a comfortable height.
- Put things you use often at waist height.
- Stock up on easy meals and essentials.
- Arrange for someone to take you home and, ideally, stay with you for the first few days.
- Arrange help with shopping, pets and caring responsibilities.
What to bring to hospital
- Your medicines in their original packaging, and your list of medicines
- Loose, comfortable clothes and well-fitting shoes or slippers with a back
- Your walking aids, if you already have them
- Glasses, hearing aids and phone charger
- Any letters or paperwork from the hospital
The day of surgery
- Follow the fasting instructions you are given for food and drink.
- Shower on the morning of surgery, unless told otherwise.
- Remove jewellery, nail varnish and make-up.
- Do not shave the area of the operation.
Tell us before your operation
Contact Mr Umar’s secretary before the day of surgery if you:
- Develop a cough, cold, chest infection, urine infection or feel unwell
- Have a cut, sore, rash or infection on the leg or anywhere on the skin
- Start any new medicines, including antibiotics
- Need to change or postpone your operation
Sources
This guide is based on Mr Umar’s practice and is guided by NICE and British Orthopaedic Association (BOA) guidance:
Questions?
| Spire Regency, Macclesfield | Denise Rowbotham · 01625 507472 |
| The Alexandra, Spire Manchester, Spire Hale and Circle Cheshire | Danielle Heron · 07528 523911 |
This is general guidance. Always follow the specific advice from your own clinical team, as your care may differ.