Get your procedure-specific instructions
Preparation differs between surgery, upper endoscopy and colonoscopy. Use the written instructions from your care team for your procedure and facility. If two sets of instructions differ, contact the team to resolve that before you start.
Questions to settle early
- When should I stop eating and drinking?
- Which medicines should I take, hold or adjust, and when?
- Does my bowel preparation or testing need to be completed in advance?
- Who will drive me home, and do I need someone to stay with me?
- What should I expect for wound care, diet, activity and time away from work?
- When is follow-up, and who do I call after hours?
Tell the team about all medicines
Include blood thinners, diabetes medicines, weight-loss medicines, over-the-counter products and supplements. Medication decisions need to be individualized. Do not change a prescribed medicine based on a general website checklist.
Make recovery practical
Arrange help with transportation, meals, childcare and lifting as needed. Keep your discharge instructions and contact numbers accessible. Your recovery plan should specify expected symptoms, signs that need a call, and any restrictions on driving or activity.
Close the loop
Keep the follow-up appointment and confirm that you receive any pathology or test results. If you do not hear back within the time you were given, contact the office.