The 24 hours before your surgery will be busy. Use this checklist to make sure you don't forget anything.

• Take a shower or bath the night before your surgery. This will help reduce the risk of infection.
• Do not shave the area of the surgery. If this is necessary, the doctor will take care of it.
• Do not wear any make-up, lipstick or nail polish.
• Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before surgery. This will help prevent any nausea from the anesthesia.
• Do bring a hospital bag. Some of the items you should include are:
  • A pair of comfortable, sturdy bedroom slippers with non-skid soles
  • A knee-length robe or gown
  • A lightweight camisole or cotton shirt to wear under your hospital gown
  • Something to read
  • Copies of your insurance cards, advance medical directives and medical history
  • Any medications you regularly take
  • Personal care items such as a hair brush, denture case, eyeglass case, contact lens case; leave your cash, credit cards and jewelry at home
  • A loose-fitting sweat suit or jogging suit and comfortable shoes to wear home

If you haven't asked others for help yet, do so now. Have someone check in with you daily. You'll recover more quickly if you have help instead of straining and trying to do it all yourself.