Pre-Sedation Instructions

Eating or Drinking

• For anesthesia, it is extremely important that patients have an empty stomach. For this reason, patients are not to have anything to eat or drink for six hours before their scheduled appointment.   (This includes water).   You may brush your teeth and have medications with a small sip of water.

Change in Health

• Any change in health, especially the development of a cold, cough, flu or fever is extremely important information for the surgeon. Please notify our office if there is any change in your health as the surgery may need to be postponed.

Medications

• Prescription medications should be taken as scheduled, only with a sip of water, unless previously indicated by the physician.

Street Drugs

• The literature has reported that the use of “street drugs” (marijuana, cocaine, heroin, amphetamines, etc) mixed with an anesthetic can result in serious complications, including death. Therefore, street drugs are strictly forbidden for several weeks prior to any anesthetic.

Clothing

• Short sleeves, loose fitting pants, and comfortable shoes are advised. Do not wear make-up, nail polish, jewelry, or false fingernails as these may prevent the monitors from working.  Please leave all valuables at home. For children, it is suggested to bring a change of clothing and a warm blanket.

Designated Driver

• A responsible adult must accompany the patient to the office. You will not be allowed to leave by taxi or bus. Arrange to have a responsible adult spend the rest of the day with you. Do not plan on driving or operating any equipment for 24 hours after the anesthesia.