News

Before Surgery: Prepare for Take-Off

COF
Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation

You’ve gone to your pre-admission clinic and taken care of those priorities. Now you’re on the active waiting list. But there are still things to do. Here’s a basic checklist to get you prepared for surgery and for the recovery period afterward:

Household:

  • Put things in order and tidy up
  • Organize “recovery room” for your return after surgery
  • Remove area rugs that could cause a fall
  • Remove electrical cables that could cause a fall
  • Prepare/buy frozen microwaveable and other easy-to-prepare dinners
  • Arrange ride to and from hospital
  • Pack bag for hospital
  • Get special equipment recommended by the surgeon
  • Identify local pharmacy and grocery with delivery service

What to Pack:

  • nightclothes
  • dressing gown and slippers
  • loose clothing that are easy to put on
  • personal care items
  • all your medications in their original containers
  • books and magazines
    Note: Leave cash, credit cards, jewelry, CD players and other valuables at home.

Medication List:

Medication Reason Dose How Often

Click here to download a form you can print and bring with you to your appointment.

Personal Grooming Checklist:

  • toothbrush/toothpaste
  • hairbrush/comb
  • eyeglasses/contacts
  • deodorant
  • shampoo/conditioner
  • razor
  • feminine hygiene products
  • skin lotion