What Do I Remove Before Surgery?

Jewellery is removed for safety. Surgical diathermy (an electrical tool used to seal bleeding) can heat metal, and any swelling during or after surgery can make a tight ring cut off circulation. If a ring will not come off, ask the team — it can often be taped over instead of removed.

Often, yes, on at least one finger. The pulse oximeter clips on a fingertip and shines light through the nail to read your oxygen level, and polish, gel or acrylic can block the reading. Many centres ask you to remove polish from at least one or two nails; some ask for all. Follow your hospital sheet.

Usually you can keep glasses, hearing aids and dentures until you are in the anaesthetic room, so you can see, hear and communicate right up to the last moment. Just tell the team you are wearing them so they can remove and store them safely once you are asleep.

Tell the team. Metal piercings carry a burn risk with diathermy, and piercings in the mouth, tongue, nose or lip can be an airway risk during anaesthesia. If a piercing is stuck, staff can sometimes use a non-metal retainer or tape it — do not force it, ask for help.

No. Exact rules vary by hospital, by the type of surgery and by your anaesthetic. This checklist is a general guide — always follow the specific pre-admission sheet your hospital gives you, and call your pre-op or admissions team if anything is unclear.