Surgery FAQ

What Should I Do The Day Before Surgery?

Please complete any pre-operative preparations as instructed by your surgeon’s office or the pre-testing nurse regarding eating, drinking and medications. If you have questions, please call (906) 786-5707, x5100. Our surgical staff are available from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday to answer any questions.

What Should I Do The Morning Of Surgery?

Take only the medications you were instructed to take with a sip of water. If you have a fever, are vomiting, have diarrhea, a rash, or cold symptoms (i.e. cough, sore throat, or a cold sore) please notify your surgeon prior to surgery. Your procedure may have to be delayed or rescheduled.

*Please remember that prior to going into surgery, dentures and glasses will be removed.

The following may not be worn during surgery:

  • Fingernail or toenail polish
  • Makeup
  • Jewelry
  • Hairpins or barrettes
  • Contact lenses
  • Wigs
  • Hair spray

Please arrive at the hospital two hours before your scheduled surgery time.

What Should I Bring To The Hospital?

Please bring with you:

  • Any medications instructed to bring
  • Loose comfortable clothing
  • Toiletries, robe, and slippers (if you will be staying overnight)
  • Inhalers, nitroglycerin, and eye drops (if applicable)
  • C-PAP machine (if applicable)

Please do not bring with you:

  • Fine jewelry
  • Large amounts of money
  • Irreplaceable items

What Happens After I Arrive At The Hospital?

When you arrive at the Hospital you will stop at the Front Information Desk to register. One of our helpful volunteers or staff members will direct you to the Ambulatory Care Unit for your procedure.

What Should I Expect Following Surgery?

You may spend approximately an hour or longer in the recovery room before you are taken back to your room in the Ambulatory Care Unit, Obstetric Department, Special Care Unit or Medical/Surgical Unit. While in the recovery room, your surgeon usually meets with your family to let them know how you are doing and to answer any questions they may have. Your family will meet you in your room.

If I Am Having Outpatient Surgery, What Does Discharge Involve?

You will remain in Recovery for approximately an hour or longer. You must be alert, take fluids without vomiting, and urinate before discharge. Your nurse will give you written discharge instructions based on your surgeon's orders. Do not drive or drink alcohol for 24 hours after your surgery. Please plan to have a competent caregiver available to stay with you and assist you the day and night of surgery.

General Information

Maps & Directions
For maps and driving directions, please visit our Facilities & Locations page.

Contact Information
For more information about inpatient and outpatient surgery at OSF St. Francis Hospital & Medical Group, please call (906) 786-5707, x5500.