You have been scheduled for a procedure under local or general anesthesia. Each choice requires a different preparation on your part and for your safety it is important that you read and follow the instructions carefully. If the instructions are unclear or if you have any questions or concerns, then please be sure to let your doctor know.
Local Anesthesia
- Eat a light meal the morning of your procedure.
- Avoid eating and drinking approximately 2 hours prior to your procedure.
- Wear comfortable loose-fitting clothing.
- Avoid aspirin-containing products and NSAIDs for 5 days prior to your procedure, unless your doctor advises you otherwise.
- For more invasive procedures, it is recommended that someone drive you home.
- If a sedative medication is prescribed and taken, you will need someone to drive you to and from the appointment.
- Plan to rest at home after the procedure and avoid any heavy lifting and strenuous activity.
General Anesthesia
- Stop eating solid foods and drinking non-clear liquids after 10 pm the night before your procedure.
- Clear liquids must be stopped 4 hours prior to the procedure.
- You may take your prescribed medications as usual with just a sip of water at least 2 hours prior to the procedure. It is important that you take any medications that are treating your blood pressure or heart conditions unless your doctor advises you otherwise.
- Diuretic medications should not be taken the morning of your procedure.
- If you require the use of inhalers to treat any pulmonary issues, then please use the inhalers as prescribed and bring them with you to your appointment.
- Weight loss medications must be stopped one week prior to your procedure.
- If you have sleep apnea, then please bring your CPAP machine and supplies with you.
- Wear comfortable loose-fitting clothing and minimal jewelry.
- Avoid aspirin-containing products and NSAIDs for 5 days prior to your procedure, unless your doctor advises you otherwise.
- You will need someone to drive you to and from the appointment.
- It is recommended that someone stay with you for the first 24 hours following general anesthesia, if possible.