Pre-surgery questions that we’re embarrassed to ask

Preparing ready for surgery can overwhelming and stressful, and might even have some questions you're embarrassed to ask, but don't worry—it's totally normal.

At nib, we want to make your hospital journey as simple and stress-free as possible so we've partnered with our clinical team to answer some of the most commonly asked surgery questions.

Related: Going to hospital? Here’s why you should contact nib first

Unless your doctor has told you not to, it’s a good idea to shower both the evening before and the morning of your surgery to reduce the chance of infection. Your surgeon may also recommend an antiseptic body wash or soap.

Refrain from using deodorants, powder, perfumes, lotions and moisturisers, as these products can leave residue on your skin.

Avoid wearing makeup when you are going in for surgery. Being able to see the natural colour of your skin helps your doctor to check for healthy circulation. More often than not, your anaesthetist will gently tape your eyes closed during surgery to avoid corneal abrasions, so it’s important not to wear eye makeup or mascara as small particles might irritate or damage the eye under the tape.

Smoking increases risk of complications in surgery, including blood clots, pneumonia and heart attacks. The earlier you stop smoking before your surgery the better. It’s recommended you don’t consume nicotine (including cigarettes, vapes and e-cigarettes) six to eight weeks before surgery. However, it’s essential you don’t smoke at least 24 hours before surgery and you must be honest with your anaesthetist when you’re asked about what and when you last smoked. 

Generally, when you’re admitted into hospital, you’ll be provided with a lockable drawer or small safe for your valuables. However, you’ll have more peace of mind if you completely remove the risk that they will be lost or stolen by leaving anything valuable or precious at home. 

Fasting for at least six hours before a general anaesthetic or sedation medicine helps keep you safe by reducing the risk that you will vomit and breathe food or liquid into your lungs.

Fasting means no chewing gum or breath mints, though it’s usually OK to take any necessary medication with a small sip of water. Instructions may vary slightly from hospital to hospital and depending on the type of surgery. Make sure you get instructions from your nurse or doctor and follow them closely. 

Related: Heading to hospital? Here’s what to pack in your overnight bag

Alcohol can affect an anaesthetic so your doctor will probably recommend that you reduce your alcohol consumption in the lead-up to your surgery. In the 24 hours before your surgery you shouldn’t drink any alcohol at all. 

This depends on the type of medication you take. Talk to your medical team well before your surgery so you’re clear about what you should continue to take as usual. If you need to stop medication in the lead-up to your operation ask when it’s safe to take your last dose.

You’ll have to remove all jewellery before you head into surgery, so we recommend taking it off and leaving it at home to make sure it doesn’t get lost or misplaced. If you are worried that your wedding ring won’t come off your finger, explain this to your specialist and in most cases they will put tape or plaster over your ring.

Just before your surgery you’ll be asked to change into a hospital gown. What you wear to travel to the hospital is up to you, but we recommend comfortable clothing that’s easy to take on and off. Your clothes and underwear should also be clean to reduce the number of bacteria near your skin as much as possible. Your footwear should also be easy to take on and off and have slip-resistant soles to prevent falls. You may want to include a change of underwear just in case.

If you’re having day surgery, you won’t be able to drive afterwards so you must organise transport home. The hospital may require you to be accompanied home by a family member or friend, but if not, you can arrange for a taxi to pick you up.

There used to be strict rules banning the use of mobile phones in hospitals but now you can use them in most parts of the hospital (mobile phones generally aren’t allowed to be used in critical care or intensive care areas). If you’re not sure, check with a nurse before switching yours on and be sure to respect the privacy of others around you.

Related: How do I know if I’m covered for a procedure?

After your surgery, you’ll be taken into a recovery room with other patients. Here, you’ll be closely monitored until you’re ready to be transferred to the ward. The amount of time you spend in recovery will depend on the complexity of the surgery, your response to the treatment and your overall health.

Related: Home vs hospital: Where should you recover post-surgery? 

It’s a good idea to take your nib card with you to hospital, but if you do forget it, don’t stress. The hospital should have all your details on file before you’re admitted for surgery.

Learn how to add your card to your mobile phone so you never have to worry about leaving it at home.

You don’t have to have someone waiting at the hospital while you have surgery. If you do decide to bring someone along for support, they’re usually welcome to wait in the reception area until you’ve been allocated a bed.

Related: Post-surgery tips and advice: What to expect

During surgery, your oxygen levels will be monitored and one of the most common ways of doing this is using a probe placed on your finger. Nail polish and acrylic nails can interfere with this, so you may be asked to remove the polish or acrylics before you arrive. Some surgeons might agree to letting you keep your acrylics on as long as you remove one from each hand, but it’s best to discuss with the hospital prior to admission.

Dentures can be a hazard while you’re under anaesthetic as they may become loose and obstruct your airways. In order to keep you safe, you’ll be asked to take them out. However, many surgeons understand that removing dentures can be traumatic and will only ask you remove them right before your anaesthetic so you can remain comfortable during any preparation.

If you have your period on the day of your surgery, let the surgeon, surgical nurse or anaesthetist know. Instead of a tampon, they will probably ask you to use a pad in case they need to catheterise you during your operation.

Head to our Going to Hospital page to get a handy guide on everything you need to know before going to hospital.

If you’re an nib member, log in to your member account and look for ‘Going to Hospital’ to do a cover check and see cost information for your procedure, or call us on 13 16 42 and we’ll support you with everything you need to know to prepare for your hospital stay.

The information on this page is general information and should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Do not use the information found on this page as a substitute for professional health care advice. Any information you find on this page or on external sites which are linked to on this page should be verified with your professional healthcare provider.