Before surgery · Planning
Pre-Surgery Checklist
Everything to prepare for surgery, grouped by when to do it — weeks before, the week before, the night before, and the morning of. Tick as you go; your progress is saved on this device, and you can print it.
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Not sure which medicines to take or hold? Use the medication checker before surgery. Your hospital's letter and team always override this general list.
Frequently asked questions
How far ahead should I start preparing for surgery?
Ideally a few weeks. Some of the most useful steps — arranging time off work, sorting a ride home and someone to stay with you, asking which medicines or supplements to stop, and stopping smoking — work best with a head start. The closer items (fasting, packing a bag, an antiseptic shower) happen in the final day or two. This checklist groups everything by when to do it.
What's the most important thing to get right before surgery?
Two things stand out: following your fasting instructions exactly (the right time to stop eating and drinking), and arranging a responsible adult to take you home and stay with you for about 24 hours afterwards. If you smoke, stopping — even a few weeks before — is one of the biggest things you can do for healing. Your hospital's letter always overrides any general advice.
Is my checklist saved, and is it private?
Yes and yes. Your ticks are saved in your own browser using localStorage, so your progress is still there when you come back — but nothing is sent anywhere or stored online. It stays on this device only. Clearing your browser data will reset it.
Can I print the checklist?
Yes. Use the Print button to print or save it as a PDF — handy for sticking on the fridge or sharing with whoever is helping you prepare.