Preparing for Surgery

To ensure the safety and success of your surgery, it’s essential to be well prepared. Please read the following instructions carefully and follow them. Don’t hesitate to ask your medical team questions.

To complement the information provided by your healthcare professional, you’ll find: 

• a brochure outlining important instructions before surgery (in French)

General preoperative instructions

The date and time of your surgery will be confirmed in advance. Make sure to arrive at the indicated time, as preparation is required before the procedure. Respecting the schedule helps the hospital run smoothly and ensures a safe intervention.

Prioritize healthy lifestyle habits

Before surgery, it’s strongly recommended that you adopt healthy lifestyle habits in accordance with the following recommendations. For more information and to learn about available resources, speak with the nursing staff at the preoperative clinic.

Stay hydrated

• Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water every day.

Eat well

• Eat three balanced meals that include protein, fibre, vegetables, fruit and whole grains. If needed, you may add snacks.

Stay active

• Engage in physical activity every day.

Stop smoking and vaping

• Stop smoking or vaping at least 4 weeks before surgery. If needed, consult the available resources (I QUIT NOW helpline and tobacco cessation centres).

Stop drinking alcohol 

• Do not drink alcohol at least 24 hours before surgery.

Stop using drugs

Food and fluid intake

If your surgery is performed under anesthesia, it’s important to follow the fasting instructions:

• Food: Stop eating all solid foods at least 8 hours before the procedure.
• Fluids: You may drink clear water or clear liquids without pulp (e.g., apple juice, tea without milk) up to 2 hours before the procedure, unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.

Stop medications and supplements

Some medications and supplements may interfere with anesthesia or surgery:

• Anticoagulant, antiplatelet and anti-inflammatory medications: Stop taking them according to your doctor’s recommendations.
• Supplements and natural products (vitamins): Avoid them in the days leading up to surgery unless your doctor advises otherwise.

Hygiene and preparation

To reduce the risk of infection:

• Antiseptic shower: It’s often recommended that patients shower with an antiseptic product the evening before and the morning of the procedure.
• Personal products: Avoid lotions, makeup, nail polish, jewelry and perfume on the day of surgery. 

Documents

Bring the following documents to facilitate your admission:

• Your health insurance card and hospital card (if you have one)
• A list of your medications, including dosage and schedule
• Information about any allergies or specific medical conditions
• Specific instructions related to your type of surgery

Education and mental preparation

Taking time to prepare mentally for surgery can help reduce stress and anxiety:

• Review educational materials provided by your care team (booklets, videos, etc.) to better understand the procedure and recovery process.
• Ask any questions needed to clarify aspects of the procedure that concern you.

Preparing for the postoperative period

After surgery, you may not be able to drive or take public transportation on your own:

• Arrange for someone to accompany you home.
• If possible, plan for a family member or loved one to help you with transportation and daily needs during the first few days of recovery.

Contacts for questions

If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact your hospital’s surgery team.

Your preparation is a crucial step in the healing process. By following these instructions, you actively contribute to a faster recovery and reduce the risk of complications. We thank you for your cooperation and remain available to support you.

For specific preparations related to knee, hip or intestinal surgery, consult the dedicated resources.