In White Coat Zone

SO you8217;ve finally decided to make that trip to hospital to get that knee straightened. Or that gallstone out. But your heart is in your...

SO you8217;ve finally decided to make that trip to hospital to get that knee straightened. Or that gallstone out. But your heart is in your mouth8230; and all those horror stories about scissors in the innards are hovering around in your brain.

The first thing to do is take a deep breath. Relax. And then go through our list of pre-hospitalisation prep.

Before the surgery
In a few days, he will be opening you up. Trust your doc, he knows best.

Pre-op tests are usually performed several days ahead. But this depends on whether you8217;ll be staying overnight at the hospital, or if it will be a day event.

If you are scheduled for any examination or test, make sure you wear comfortable shoes and clothing.

8216;8216;Most hospitals perform detailed physical examinations and the patient will require a physical clearance certificate from a physician as well as the anaesthesist,8217;8217; says Dr Anupam Sibal, medical director at Indraprastha Apollo, New Delhi.

Quit smoking two weeks before surgery. This will improve lung function and help you heal quicker.

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Alcohol is out of bounds for at least two days before surgery. It may react with medication.

Final appointment before surgery
This is the time when you need to pose all the questions that may be bothering you. Get a clear picture of side-effects, risks, recovery time, outcome. 8216;8216;The surgeon is supposed to tell you all about the surgery, including exactly what he is going to do. He should also outline the best and worst case scenario,8217;8217; says Dr Sibal.

If you8217;re nervous about your family members, talk to the doc about it. It is the duty of the hospital to make them feel comfortable as well.

Also mention your previous illnesses and surgeries, allergies and pregnancy possibilities. Don8217;t leave out skin or dental infections, tooth abscesses, colds, flu, rash, fever or an upset tummy.

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Tell your surgeon which medications you are on. This includes OTC drugs8212;ones like aspirin and ibuprofen slow down blood clotting8212;even inhalers and eyedrops.

Make sure the medical team notes the operative sites correctly, in case there is the faintest chance of a wrong side surgery.

Call your insurance company to find out whether the surgery to be performed needs to be pre-certified or approved in advance.

Before going into hospital
You ought to know when and where the surgery will be held a day ahead.

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Follow all instructions on food, drink and medication. Consumption of water or sweets at the wrong time may even lead to cancellation of surgery.

Shower before surgery to remove make-up8212;including nailpolish8212;lotions, perfumes or powders. These keep tape and special monitoring equipment from sticking to your body.

Bring your spectacle/contact lens/dentures case.

Wear loose, comfortable clothing. You may want to pack a bathrobe and slippers.

Leave all valuables, including cash, credit cards and jewellery, at home.

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After the operationSluggish digestion, gas pains and similar discomfort after surgery are normal. Keep your doc posted, but do not get alarmed.

The frequency of checks on blood pressure, heart rate, breathing and temperature will depend on the level of care you need, the type of surgery you have had and your surgeon8217;s orders. If you feel you aren8217;t being looked after properly, tell your doc, but don8217;t panic.

Your activity and diet will be increased gradually, based on your progress.