Surgery · 7 min read
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Editorial note: This article was prepared for this website from the sources listed below. Unless a named clinical reviewer is shown, it has not been attributed to or clinically reviewed by an individual KPMC clinician.
Understand the plan
Ask why the operation is recommended, its expected benefits and important risks, reasonable alternatives, and what may happen without it. Confirm the planned procedure and site. Consent is a conversation, and you should have an opportunity to ask questions before agreeing.
Medicines, fasting and health changes
Give the surgical team a complete list of prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, supplements and allergies. Ask specifically what to do with blood thinners, diabetes medicines and herbal products. Follow your own team’s fasting instructions; do not use generic fasting times from another patient.
Tell the hospital if you develop fever, cough, skin infection, vomiting or another significant health change before surgery. Smoking cessation and good control of ongoing conditions can support recovery.
Plan discharge before admission
Arrange transport and, when advised, a responsible adult to stay with you. Ask about wound care, pain relief, movement, diet, work, driving and follow-up. Know which symptoms require a call to the ward or emergency care.
At a glance
Key takeaways
- Bring a complete medicine and allergy list.
- Follow only the fasting and medicine instructions given for your procedure.
- Plan transport, home support and follow-up in advance.
When to seek care
- Contact the surgical team before admission if you become unwell or cannot follow the preparation instructions.
- After surgery, use the discharge instructions and seek urgent care for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, collapse, uncontrolled bleeding or rapidly worsening symptoms.
General information only. This article does not replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms are severe or rapidly worsening, seek urgent medical care. In Malaysia, call 999 for an emergency or go to the nearest emergency department.
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