Pre-Op Care Instructions

This instruction sheet is intended to assist you in preparation of surgery. Additional instructions may be given that are not listed below. We feel strongly that your surgery will be a positive experience and stand ready to assist you in any way possible. We encourage you to ask any questions that you may have.

TWO WEEKS BEFORE SURGERY:

1. Some medications can interfere with anesthesia and cause undesirable side effects that may affect your surgery. Please read over the enclosed medication information list and let us know if you take any of these medications. Tylenol is a good medication to take for any aches or pains you may have prior to surgery. No aspirin/Excedrin or other blood thinners.  Stop Semi-Glutides if you are taking them.
2. If you develop a cold or any other illness prior to surgery, please notify us.
3. If your surgery is to be performed on an outpatient basis, under general anesthesia, you will need to arrange for transportation to and from the hospital at this time. In addition, a responsible adult should be with you for the first 24 hours after surgery.
4. If you need or desire home nursing assistance, we recommend you contact RN Services at 636-236-1950 to arrange care.
5. Make sure you have all the necessary items convenient to you in your home such as proper food, garments, phone numbers, etc. Preferably, in a spot close to your bed to reduce movement.

ONE WEEK PRIOR:

PSA (pre-surgical assessment) will call to go over your health history and medications. If your surgery is scheduled at Mercy South, they may also schedule an in-person visit.

Mercy South – 314-525-4302

St. Clare – 636-496-2974

1. We recommend patients stop all hormonal therapy or oral contraceptives one week prior to and one week after surgery to reduce risk of blood clots in the legs.
2. Do not shave within the area of surgery.
3. Wash area of surgery/body with Hibiclens soap (Over the counter product:

   Amazon/Walmart/CVS/Walgreens), in the shower 1 day prior to and the day of surgery.

    ** All patients having mesh or implant surgery need to wash their body with Hibiclens every day for 5 days prior to surgery**

4. If you have a history of MRSA, wash with Hibiclens every day for 1 week prior to surgery. Also, use a Q-tip to apply Bactroban ointment to each nostril, ear canal and belly button three times a day for 5 days prior to surgery.  We can prescribe the Bactroban if you let us know you have a history of MRSA.

DAY BEFORE SURGERY:

Do not eat or drink anything after midnight.

MORNING OF SURGERY:

1. The doctor will write prescription for any meds he has determined you may need.

   Mercy South – prescriptions will be filled at the hospital while you are in recovery, and you will receive them when you are discharged.

   St. Clare – All medications will be sent to Mercy South Pharmacy (they make heparin specifically for Dr. Cabbabe), not your pharmacy. Call ahead for curbside pick-up 314-525-1633, Option 1

2. For any approved daily medications, these should be taken early in the day with a sip of water. This should be discussed with the PSA (pre surgical assessment) team.
3. Wear loose-fitting clothing that does not require you to pull it over your head. Do not wear any makeup. Fingernail polish is okay.
4. Bring all necessary items to the hospital with you for your return home such as scarf, hat, friend/family member. If you are staying overnight don’t forget to bring your LIPO FOAM
5. You may wish to have a pillow and blanket in the car for the trip home.
6. Remove all jewelry.   Leave jewelry and valuables at home.