Preparation for your procedure
Prepare for your procedure by following the instructions provided by your specialist.
24-48 hours before admission
Fasting
Follow the fasting instructions based on your admission time. If you do not fast correctly your operation will be cancelled.
DO NOT drink: milk, milkshakes, coffee or tea with milk, cloudy fruit juices.
Clear fluids include: water, black tea, black coffee, cordials, clear fruit juice without pulp.
6.00am admission time (Morning or all day theatre)
- No solid food from midnight. This includes lollies or chewing gum
- Clear fluids from midnight to 5.00am. No more than 200mls an hour and stop drinking after 5.00am, except a sip of water to help swallow tablets.
10.30am admission time (Afternoon theatre)
- Light breakfast (cereal or toast) before 7.00am
- Clear fluids from 7.00am to 10.00am. No more than 200mls an hour and stop drinking after 10am, except for a sip of water to help swallow tablets.
Shower and wash your hair
Shower and wash your hair the night before your procedure and again before you leave home. Do not wear make-up, deodorant, perfume, aftershave nail polish or talc. Take your regular medication unless your doctor, anaesthetist or pharmacist has told you otherwise.
Organise transport and accommodation
If you are going home on the same day as your surgery, you must arrange an adult to pick you up from the hospital and stay with you overnight.
SMS reminder
At your request, a sms appointment reminder is sent two weeks and again two days prior to admission. You can ask to not receive this service.
What to bring
- Your Medicare card
- Private health insurance card (if you want to use it)
- Health Care Card and/or concession card (if you have one)
- Current medications (prescription, over the counter and herbal medicine)
- Relevant x-rays, scans or any other test results or reports
- Glasses, hearing and mobility aids
- An adult carer to support you and take you home
- Copy of Advanced Healthcare Directive or Enduring Power of Attorney (if you have one)
- A jacket or cardigan in case you get cold
- A dressing gown or cardigan, sleepwear or comfortable day clothes
- Slippers and shoes (low heel, closed-in, non-slip, adjustable and firm fitting around the foot)
- Your toiletries and personal items
- Copy of Advanced Healthcare Directive or Enduring Power of Attorney if you have one
- Something to read or do during your stay
- Medical devices required for your care (e.g. CPAP machine)
- Do not bring large amounts of cash or valuables such as jewellery, watches or other items of value to you