Before Your Surgery

Picture of a heart monitor machine in pre-op at the foot of the bed. There is a female Nurse in the background putting patient info into a computer and patient lying down next to the Nurse in a swing bed.

Preparing for Your Procedure

Please follow the specific instructions provided by your surgeon and Crittenden Community Hospital's Surgery Department. Your instructions may vary depending on your procedure, medications and medical history.

Before Your Procedure

Make sure the Surgery Department has your current phone number so we can reach you if there is a change in your arrival or procedure time.
Follow the instructions you receive about when to stop eating and drinking before your procedure.
Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare team about which medications to take or hold before your procedure.
Tell your healthcare team about all prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, vitamins and supplements you take.
If you take blood thinners, diabetes medications or insulin, make sure you understand the specific instructions provided to you before your procedure.
Tell your healthcare team about any allergies or previous reactions to medications, anesthesia or latex.
Contact your healthcare team if you develop a fever, cough, cold, vomiting, diarrhea or another significant change in your health before your procedure.
Let your healthcare team know about any new cuts, rashes, sores or other skin problems, especially near the area where your procedure will be performed.
If you will receive anesthesia or sedation, arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home after your procedure.

The Day of Your Procedure

Take a shower or bath before coming to the hospital and follow any special bathing or skin preparation instructions you were given.
Wear clean, loose and comfortable clothing and shoes that are easy to put on.
Leave jewelry and other valuables at home.
Do not wear makeup, nail polish or artificial nails unless you have been instructed otherwise.
Take only the medications you have been instructed to take on the morning of your procedure.

What to Bring

Photo identification and insurance information
A current list of your medications, including prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, vitamins and supplements
A list of your allergies
Any paperwork or instructions provided by your surgeon
Your inhaler, if you use one and have been instructed to bring it
Your CPAP or BiPAP equipment if you use it and have been instructed to bring it

Arriving at the Hospital

Please arrive at the time provided by the Surgery Department and allow enough time for registration and preparation before your procedure.
Patients should register at the Admitting/Registration area near the Emergency Department.

Transportation Home

If you receive anesthesia or sedation, you will need a responsible adult to drive you home. Please make these arrangements before the day of your procedure.
Your healthcare team will provide instructions about your recovery, medications, activity and follow-up care before you leave the hospital.

If You Become Sick or Cannot Keep Your Appointment

If you become sick, have a significant change in your health or are unable to keep your appointment, please contact Crittenden Community Hospital as soon as possible.
Phone: (270) 965-5281

Questions Before Your Procedure?

If you have questions about your arrival time, eating or drinking, medications or how to prepare for your procedure, please contact your surgeon or Crittenden Community Hospital's Surgery Department before the day of your procedure.