You are having shoulder surgery in two weeks and you are trying to get yourself prepared for the operation. You have your bag packed with a change of clothing, you have seen your doctor and the surgery time is set. As you are getting your family ready for your departure from your home, there are some precautions you need to know before the shoulder surgery. Precautions including discontinuing the use of anti-inflammatory medication and not eating or drinking anything after midnight the day before your shoulder surgery.
Medications & Foods
One week before your scheduled surgery, you should stop taking anti-inflammatory medication, including aspirin, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Talk with your doctor about other ways to ease any pain you may experience during this one week without the pain medication. Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the day before your surgery due to the anesthesia that will be used for the surgery. Talk with your anesthesiologist about any medications you still may be taking and if you can take them during this period of no eating or drinking.
Jewelry and Accessories
The night before your surgery, remove any nail polish you may be wearing. Remove any jewelry, including rings, nose rings and other body jewelry the morning of the shoulder surgery. These items may get lost or cause interference during surgery, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Also, prior to going into the hospital, remove your dentures, partial dentures, wigs, glasses and contact lenses. Have a friend or family member store these items in your bag or other safe place.
Other Considerations
Have a friend or family member bring you to the hospital and inform the staff working with your doctor of their presence. Once you are wearing your wrist band, ask the nurse for a black marker. The Cleveland Clinic recommends that you giive the marker to a friend or family member and have them write "No" on the shoulder that should not be operated on. This will inform the hospital staff of the correct shoulder scheduled for surgery so no mix up will occur.
