Preparation for Your Knee Surgery
Total Knee Replacement Guide Home | Preparation for Your Knee Surgery | Pre-Admission Testing | Pre-Op | Post-Op | Discharge | FAQ
What to bring to the hospital
- Flat supportive athletic or walking shoes that are non-slip
- Short night gown, loose pajamas, or baggy shorts that will fit over dressings
- Short, light-weight bathrobe—short clothing helps prevent tripping while walking
- Personal toiletries
- Eyeglasses instead of contacts —they are easier to maintain and less likely to be lost
- Dentures—a container will be provided for storage while you are a patient
- Total Knee Replacement Guide
- A list of medications you are taking—including those you may have stopped taking in anticipation of surgery
- Telephone numbers of people you may want to call
- A small amount of money for newspapers, items from the gift shop, etc.
- A book, magazine, or other hobby item
- Sweatsuit or loose, comfortable fitting clothing to wear home
- Crutches or walker if you already have them
Prepare yourself
- Eat well-balanced meals
- Get plenty of rest
- Exercise to improve and/or maintain muscle strength as tolerated
- Cut back or eliminate smoking and alcohol
Note: REPORT ANY NEW ILLNESS TO YOUR SURGEON THAT MAY HAVE OCCURRED SINCE YOUR LAST OFFICE VISIT.
Prepare your home
- Obtain a cordless phone
- Stock your freezer and pantry
- Check availability of a walker, raised toilet seat, three-in-one commode, or tub bench. Should you need these items after surgery, we will assist you in obtaining them
- Arrange for support from family or friends for everyday activities
The day/night before surgery
- You can have your regular dinner
- A nurse from Same Day Program (SDP) will call you the day before your surgery (unless your surgery is scheduled on Monday—then you will be called on Friday). If you are not at home the nurse will leave a message. You will be told when to stop having solid food—usually midnight, and when to stop having clear liquids (water, soda, coffee, tea—without cream, etc.). You will be told what medications to take the morning of your surgery and what time to be at the hospital. If you are the first case, you should be here at 6AM!
- You may brush your teeth and rinse out your mouth
- Shower or bathe with an anti-septic soap the night before and the morning of surgery
Note: DO NOT SHAVE YOUR LEGS BEFORE SURGERY, WE WILL DO IT FOR YOU SAFELY IN THE OPERATING ROOM.
